Now that you have enrolled in your online course, your computer is at your disposal and your latte is on the other side of you. You think everything is in order. But there are still emails to be read and assignments to complete. You just received that message via Facebook, answered the phone or were distracted somehow else…
Distance learning can often be more complicated than offline one. Learning online is different from classroom learning. It’s important to have some strategies in place before you get into trouble later. We’ve got ten tips for being a great e-student and making the right adjustments from the past where you sat in a classroom, to the future where you’ll be sitting…well…anywhere!
- Online doesn’t necessarily mean faster
This is a common error. Many people mistakenly believe that self-paced learning means learning faster. Self-paced means you can learn at your own pace. You can go on for hours, but that is not practical for most people. The work required for a unit of coursework is approximately the same as that required for classroom instruction. When scheduling your courses, consider the reading time, study time, and your personal time.
- Good time management is essential
You can lose track of time if you don’t pay enough attention. You should plan how many hours per week you will spend listening to online lectures or watching videos. Your study time and reading time should be planned and made a priority. Don’t plan to squeeze 30 hours of coursework into three days. In case you not going to buy custom term paper, of course.. Even if you finish it, you won’t be able to remember what you did.
- Be aware of course requirements and scheduling
A traditional class has the advantage of scheduling things for you. The classes meet at the same time each week and the assignments are distributed as the class progresses. Online learning allows you to set your own schedule. This can sometimes lead to problems. You should create a time frame for projects and papers that shows when you must start work. It’s easy to forget to complete assignments or to wait until the last minute. Stick to your schedule.
- Attention to your body mechanics
While no one is concerned about the damage to your neck or hands if you are confined to a lecture hall for a few hours, it’s important to pay attention to the physical demands that prolonged computer usage can place on your body. When you are typing for long periods of times, think about the ergonomics in your workspace. Schedule breaks from the computer screen to protect your eyes and neck. Wrist pain and headaches are not something you want to ruin your studies.
- Be aware of your distractions
Be aware of what distracts you from the important stuff. Do you think it’s an email? Turn off Outlook. Facebook? Close this page. Twitter? Turn it off. You may not like the background noise. However, if you find that you are constantly looking at the Real Housewives, it is probably not the right type of ambient noise.
- Interact with students to create interactions
Online learning can lead to isolation. It is easier to be excited about a subject if you are surrounded by enthusiastic students. The more you love something, the easier it will be to stay with it. If Ralph, your dog, is not keen to talk about sociology with you then you may feel a little stifled. You can connect with others through your online program’s webchats or forums. If your course has email lists, you can sign up for them. You will find people who are excited about the same things as you, and people you can turn to if you need help, advice, or help with your studies.
- Take notes
Online doesn’t necessarily mean paperless. One of the most effective learning strategies is to write down key concepts, make flashcards, and summarize content using paper and ink. Writing is a way to embed information in your brain. It’s equally effective at work in front of a computer as in the classroom.
- You can manage your space but not how you think
It may not be the best strategy to “make a study area.” Recent research shows that your brain may learn new information by changing where you study. While you should pay attention to the basics, good lighting, comfortable seating, and limited distractions are important. However, it may be beneficial to move between several places to help your brain retain all the learning.
- Tech-savvy
Prepare for the unexpected when it comes to your computer setup for online courses. Download the software before you start studying. Your lectures can be viewed online via video. Make sure you have enough bandwidth. Do not let technical barriers stop you from learning, especially when there is a deadline for projects or exams.
- Keep your eyes on the prize
Online success is built on motivation. Online learning is your engine. It can sometimes be difficult to find the spark that will keep everything running. If you are running low on gas, consider the end result. What are you going to do at the end? Which career? What career? Imagine it. This is the purpose of all the hard work. When you can remember why you do it, rolling down the highway will be a lot easier.
