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 arguably 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. Whether you are a current or prospective student, below are tips that can help you as an online enrollee this coming school year.
Establish routines for better time management
Managing expectations is the first step towards optimizing your 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 you would not want to develop.
Find a system that effectively weaves in your school work with other activities. Start by getting into the habit of regularly checking your e-mails or your school’s learning management system to keep up to speed with new projects, tests, and announcements.
Visualize your upcoming projects, exams, and tasks by crafting to-do lists, and plotting out your schedule on a planner or even your mobile phone. Keep track of your progress by updating your to-do list to make sure you don’t miss anything important, and help you allocate time and effort.
Quality workspace and gadgets spell productivity
Investing in a quality workspace that allows you to focus on your coursework is important. A workspace helps you to segment your school work from other tasks. When taking your classes, a clutter-free space that allows you to concentrate is best.
Ensure your gadgets are also up-to-date by installing necessary applications, and implementing software updates as needed. Find yourself a reliable service provider or a location with a stable internet connection to avoid unnecessary hassles. For online learners, technology is essential to helping you accomplish your work in a timely and efficient manner.
Keep laser focus amid distractions
An organized workspace is futile if you are subject to many personal distractions. Learn to lessen your social-media use while you listen to your lectures or browse through important course readings. This way, you create headspace that help streamline your study process.
Normal classroom settings typically discourage the use of social media during class hours. Challenge yourself to 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 your online library or discussed in your 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 you learn at a faster and more comprehensive rate. But do remember to critically evaluate your 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 your professor should you need help in understanding lectures. Reach out to your classmates should you feel the 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. AMA Online Education’s virtual classrooms are ready to face these challenges with you. Visit www.amauonline.com or browse through their official Facebook page to learn more about what an online education can do for you.