Making the Best of Online Learning

Changing technology and advancements in distance learning allow you to get a college education online without having to attend in-person classes. This is a notable change because in the past online-only degrees were not held in high regard.

However, with respected fully accredited schools offering fully online degree programs the stigma about online learning is going away.

In fact, the degree you earn from a major university from their online courses is no different from the one you’d earn from attending in person.

However, despite the many advantages online learning offers it is a new experience for many students and does require a bit of planning before you dive into it full time.

Now when you research articles you’ll soon see resources that cover many points of discussion concerning the online learning experience.

One area of online learning that you need to carefully consider is the mental or learning aspect.

Because online courses take you out of the traditional classroom environment you may encounter a bit of a disconnect when you start attending.

However, with the proper strategy, your ability to learn, take in information, and get good grades shouldn’t suffer due to changing from classroom to remote learning.

Preparing to Learn Online

1. Routine is Important

You should approach your online classes with the same focus you would traditional ones.

That means have a set schedule on class days and having a clearly defined work area.

There is flexibility in this as that everyone has preferences on what they consider a good learning environment, some people like lots of lighting some less, some people need total quiet, while others need a fan or other type of white noise.

The key is it should be comfortable, free of distractions, and have a strong internet connection. This way you can devote all your attention to your work.

2. How You Learn

As with any classroom how you engage with the material in your own time is important.

Some people learn by listening while many prefer reading the material. Consider what works best for you and engage with the material in that way.

Print out class lessons and transcripts for reading if that is your preferred approach and if visual elements are more your style re-watching recorded lectures can prove valuable.

Also, schedule time to study based on your preferences. If you’re not a morning person try studying later in the day and the reverse is also true.

Trying to force yourself to learn in a way that doesn’t fit your preferences is both frustrating and time-wasting always approach your learning in a way that suits you best.

3. Engagement

Online learning doesn’t have to be a passive experience nor should it be. Read the material in advance to make sure you’re prepared for the class.

Do additional research if you feel the need to and reach out to classmates and your professors to ask questions and discuss the material.

In addition, many online courses offer email lists, texting lists, or message boards as an online discussion hub.

Engage with your classmates and build relationships you’ll learn more, increase your understanding of the material, and have more success.

Professors are also more than willing to engage with students through the many accessible forms of communication we have today.

4. Ask Questions Like You Normally Would

Related to engagement is the ability to ask questions about topics you're confused about or would like clarification on.

Due to the difference in format (digital versus in-person), you may feel uncomfortable asking questions when you’re not in a traditional classroom environment.

The difference in platforms shouldn’t deter you and if you have questions you should ask them as you normally would.

Additional tools such as class discussion forums can also be a useful platform for any questions you may have.

5. Set Your Goals and Follow Through

Education requires planning, focus, and organization no matter where and how you engage with the material.

However, the change from classroom to remote can make organizing a bit more difficult.

It’s easier to remember due dates and future tests when you see the professor in person every day but when you're going to class remotely it’s easier to lose track of things.

Remote learning offers advantages, but a downside can be it requires you to be more proactive in tracking due dates and noting your schedule for tests, quizzes, and assignments.

Final Thoughts

Remote learning takes a lot of the stress out of continuing education by not having to travel to campus you avoid issues such as traffic, parking, and seating.

There is also the financial component as remote learning has a much lower overhead than living and going to class on campus and for many working adults remote courses allow them the chance to further their education.

If you’re taking online classes you’re likely already aware of the pros and cons. By staying focused on being the best student you can be you further gain the benefits education can bring both for your career and life.