While online learning has removed physical and geographical boundaries that inhibit learning, it also presents new challenges for students looking to subscribe to its system. Overcoming distractions, managing priorities, and getting ahead of the game are tougher for online students who mostly guide themselves in completing their courses and finishing their degrees.
AMA Online Education believes that hurdling these challenges starts with simple steps that allow for a balance of priorities.
ESTABLISH ROUTINES FOR BETTER TIME MANAGEMENT
Managing expectations is the first step towards optimizing the learning experience. Always remember that while classes are conducted online, learning through an online program requires just as much work as a traditional classroom. Procrastination in an output-based system is a habit one would not want to develop.
Find a system that effectively weaves in school work with other activities. Start by getting into the habit of regularly checking e-mails or school’s learning management system to keep up to speed with new projects, tests, and announcements.
Visualize upcoming projects, exams, and tasks by crafting to-do lists, and plotting out schedule on a planner or even the mobile phone. Keep track of progress by updating to-do list to make sure one doesn’t miss anything important, and help allocate time and effort.
QUALITY WORKSPACE AND GADGETS SPELL PRODUCTIVITY
Investing in a quality workspace that allows one to focus on the coursework is important. A workspace helps one to segment school work from other tasks. When taking classes, a clutter-free space that allows one to concentrate is best.
Ensure gadgets are also up-to-date by installing necessary applications, and implementing software updates as needed. Find a reliable service provider or a location with a stable Internet connection to avoid unnecessary hassles. For online learners, technology is essential to helping accomplish work in a timely and efficient manner.
KEEP LASER FOCUS AMID DISTRACTIONS
An organized workspace is futile if one is subject to many personal distractions. Learn to lessen social-media use while listening to lectures or browse through important course readings. This way, one creates headspace that help streamline the study process.
Normal classroom settings typically discourage the use of social media during class hours. Mirror the learning environment in traditional schools.
GO BEYOND THE LIMITLESS WALLS OF AN ONLINE CLASSROOM
Take learning to the next level by exploring resources beyond what is available in the online library or discussed in online classes. Utilize the Internet and the information available on the Web to learn beyond the syllabus. While course materials such as online books are helpful, doing extra research goes a long way in retaining knowledge.
From specialized websites to video tutorials, the Internet is full of tools that can help one learn at a faster and more comprehensive rate. But do remember to critically evaluate sources for credibility.
ASK FOR HELP WHEN NEEDED
Knowledge gained can further grow through consultation with professors and peers. Remember, self-directed learning is not the task of one person alone. Online schools also highly encourage a feedback system that allows both students and teachers to learn from each other.
Do not hesitate to message a professor should one need help in understanding lectures. Reach out to classmates is there’s a need to coordinate about project deadlines, or clarify lecture content. Utilize the chat and e-mail functions present in the learning system to facilitate an environment where everybody learns.
Understanding the platform combined with a sense of motivation are key ingredients to thriving in online schools.
