How to be a Successful Online Learner
How to be a Successful Online Learner
Online learning is a major part of today's educational community. It is a great way to gain knowledge to advance job-related skills, change career paths or supplement traditional school work. Online learning also offers those with additional responsibilities in life, such as family and full-time work, the flexibility to pursue education at their own pace. In general, online learners should possess certain qualities to be successful and to benefit fully from the virtual classroom environment.
Time Management
Online learning offers flexibility, freedom, and independence. Within this seemingly "loose" environment, the ability to manage time is key. Online courses demand a lot of time commitment; learn how to balance your family, work, and online school work.
Have Access to a Computer and the Internet
To state the obvious, you should have unlimited access to a functioning computer and high-speed Internet service. Online classes are just that online! A seamless online learning experience can only happen with the requisite equipments.
Written Communication is King
Online learning is mostly through written communication. Develop your writing skills so that you are able to communicate effectively and efficiently.
Find a Distraction-Free Zone
Figure out what works for you both in terms of time and space. Ask yourself if you are more efficient online in the morning, afternoon or evening hours? What is your maximum attention span? Are you the type of person that needs a quiet place to study? Do you need to get away from your home environment to focus on school work?
Participate in Online/Distance Learning Student Orientation
If you are pursuing an online degree or certification, most reputable colleges, universities and e-Learning institutions offer online "student orientation." Don't skip them! Join any student orientation offered online to become acquainted with course delivery tools and requirements, get familiar with course interaction features, and understand the responsibilities of being an online student.
Seek Support
Don't be afraid to voice issues you may have directly to the instructor. Because there is no face-to-face interaction, your instructor cannot gauge, on her own, any problems you may be having with the class. Speak up, ask questions, and be able to communicate in writing.
Chat rooms are also a great resource for online students taking the same class to ask and answer questions, discuss assignments and exchange ideas.
Stay on Top of Your Game
It is a misconception that online courses are somehow easier than traditional classroom work. In fact, online learning is often accelerated and requires a greater time commitment. It is very difficult to catch up once you fall behind. Thus, keeping pace with the online course work and meeting deadlines are pivotal.
Be Focused and Self-Motivated
Online education allows you to learn at your own pace and is flexible. However, to be an effective online student, you must be disciplined and self-motivated. Unlike traditional classrooms, you will not have your peers around to collaborate in your efforts or teachers to tell you what to do. It is up to you to take full responsibility to see the course work through.
Make a Study Schedule
One of the reasons people opt for online learning is they have multiple commitment in life, whether it's family, work or something else. Surveys show that students taking online classes for a degree or certification program need to dedicate at least four to nine hours per week, per class. In order to balance your priorities, make a study schedule and try your best to stick to it.
Be a Technical Troubleshooter
You are bound to encounter technical glitches. Be patient. You must have basic computer technology proficiency. Educate yourself on how to handle minor technical difficulties and have back-up plans.
Have the Right Attitude
At the outset, know that a brick-and-mortar classroom experience is very different from studying online. That being said, online education offers high-quality and valuable instruction. Thus, online learning should be approached with the same enthusiasm and respect as traditional classroom courses.
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