Study and Learning Skills and Strategies for Online Classes
Online courses have provided a multitude of opportunities for individuals facing challenges in obtaining a degree through traditional means. Whether it be due to commitments such as full-time employment, parenting responsibilities, health conditions, geographical limitations, or any other factors, attending in-person courses can often be inconvenient and challenging to manage.
However, it is important to acknowledge that online courses have their own learning curve, as they are typically organized and conducted in a different manner compared to traditional courses. Whether you are new to online courses or have already taken a few but are encountering difficulties, implementing the following study and learning strategies will greatly contribute to your educational success.
Research Your Courses
Prior to embarking on your online course journey, conducting thorough research on the courses and their structure is highly recommended. This can be achieved by reading course descriptions, seeking insights from previous students who have taken the course, and reaching out to the professor via email.
Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the general expectations of a course before enrolling is crucial. Online courses come in a wide variety of formats, so knowing the type of course that aligns best with your learning style will greatly facilitate your educational experience.
Certain online courses demand a high level of independence from students. In these cases, the professor may simply provide a list of tasks and deadlines, leaving it up to the students to complete them. If you struggle with being an independent learner and rely heavily on reminders from teachers to stay on track, this type of online course may not be suitable for you.
On the other hand, some courses require frequent and active participation, such as daily discussion posts, regular interaction with classmates, and periodic check-ins with the professor. Additionally, certain courses may necessitate video chats with professors and/or classmates. While this can be beneficial for students who struggle with independent learning, it can prove challenging for individuals with other commitments or those completing coursework during unconventional hours. For instance, if you are residing in a different time zone, finding a suitable time for video chats with classmates can be quite challenging.
Moreover, if you are working full-time and unable to log into the course every day, it may pose difficulties for highly interactive courses. Furthermore, some individuals find this type of interaction challenging, as many students opt for online classes precisely to avoid extensive in-person interactions.
Conducting research on courses beforehand can also help you determine if you possess the necessary software and technology required for successful course completion. This may include specific internet speed requirements, the need for a webcam, photo or video editing software, and so on. It is essential to avoid finding yourself halfway through a class only to realize that you need to purchase additional software, such as Photoshop.
Being aware of such requirements in advance can help you avoid enrolling in classes that do not align with your learning expectations or provide you with ample time to prepare if you decide to proceed with the course.
Get to Know the Course Format
As previously mentioned, each online course has its own unique requirements and expectations, which can become overwhelming and confusing, especially when you are enrolled in multiple online classes simultaneously.
For instance, Class A may require assignments to be submitted through the course management system and have a midnight deadline, while Class B may require assignments to be submitted via Google Drive and have an 8 am deadline. Additionally, Instructor A may prefer to be contacted through the course messenger, while Instructor B may prefer email communication.
Keeping track of all these varying details can be challenging, and failing to do so may lead to mistakes, inconveniences, and even potential point deductions. To mitigate this, it is advisable to create a master chart or list at the beginning of the semester that includes all the pertinent information and expectations for each course. This consolidated reference will help you stay organized and minimize errors in managing the requirements of each individual course.
Know How You Will Be Assessed
While the primary goal of learning should ideally be gaining knowledge rather than solely focusing on grades, assessments are an integral part of the educational process, and they can vary significantly in online courses. By aligning your learning approach with the assessment methods used in your course, you can optimize your efficiency and effectiveness in acquiring knowledge.
If your assessment primarily involves writing, it can be beneficial to make note of relevant quotes and passages as you engage with the course materials. This proactive note-taking approach will save you time when you revisit the material and start writing, as you will have already compiled the necessary supporting evidence.
In the case of online tests or quizzes, it is advisable to take comprehensive notes on all the information you learn and highlight key points in the course materials. This will provide you with easily accessible references when reviewing the material before the assessment.
However, if your assessments are conducted in a testing center, it is crucial to note that you will not be allowed to rely on any external notes or materials. In such cases, you will need to adopt more traditional study methods, such as memorization and comprehensive studying, similar to in-person courses.
These examples represent a few common assessment styles in online courses. Regardless of the specific assessment format, it is essential to allocate time at the beginning of the course to plan out your learning strategy based on how you will be expected to apply the material in assessments. This proactive approach will better equip you for the assessments and enhance your overall preparedness.
Don’t Procrastinate
You raise a valid point about the challenges of procrastination in the context of online courses. Procrastinating can have detrimental effects on your performance and overall learning experience. The independent nature of online courses, coupled with the ease of dismissing self-imposed deadlines, can exacerbate the tendency to procrastinate.
Research, such as the study you mentioned from the University of Rennes 2, has indeed shown a correlation between procrastination and poor performance in online courses. Students who procrastinate often participate less in course discussion forums, leading to decreased engagement and lower grades.
It is crucial to recognize the potential consequences of procrastination in online courses. Chronic procrastinators may underestimate the cumulative impact of missed assignments or discussions. Moreover, technical difficulties can further compound the effects of procrastination, resulting in late submissions and potential point deductions.
Additionally, the asynchronous nature of online courses means that professors may not be immediately available to address your questions or provide clarifications. It is essential to work on assignments and coursework well in advance, allowing time to seek clarification from the professor and receive timely responses. Waiting until the last minute can leave you without the opportunity to engage in meaningful communication, potentially hindering your understanding of the material.
To combat procrastination in online courses, it is beneficial to implement strategies such as setting realistic deadlines, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and creating a structured study schedule. Holding yourself accountable and seeking support from peers or forming online study groups can also help mitigate the tendency to procrastinate.
By recognizing the potential pitfalls of procrastination and actively working to avoid it, you can enhance your learning experience and improve your overall performance in online courses.
Be an Active Learner
You make an important point about the temptation to passively go through the motions in an online class. The lack of immediate oversight can make it easy to skim through readings or multitask during lectures, potentially undermining your learning experience. It is crucial to understand that online courses can be just as rigorous as traditional classes, and it is essential to allocate sufficient time and effort to comprehend the material thoroughly.
To become an active learner in an online course, it is beneficial to identify the learning strategies that work best for you. Reflect on what has been effective for you in traditional classroom settings and apply those strategies to your online learning environment. Here are a few strategies you can try:
-
Taking notes during video lectures: This approach is particularly helpful for learners who benefit from the act of writing and organizing information (reading/writing learners).
-
Listening to lectures while engaging in other activities: For learners who thrive in a hands-on or movement-oriented environment (kinesthetic learners), listening to lectures while performing tasks like washing dishes or going for a walk can enhance engagement and retention.
-
Color coding or highlighting notes and reading materials: Visual learners often find it helpful to visually organize information through color coordination or highlighting.
-
Using text-to-speech technology for course readings: Auditory learners may benefit from converting written course materials into audio format using text-to-speech tools, allowing them to listen to readings and absorb information more effectively.
These are just a few examples, and it’s important to find the strategies that work best for you as an individual learner. The key is to actively participate in your learning and take ownership of your education. By actively engaging with the material, you can maximize your learning outcomes and derive the most benefit from your online courses.
Online Education and The Challenge of Motivation
Concentration
One of the challenges encountered in online learning is the loss of motivation. Students often find it difficult to stay motivated to study because they typically complete online education programs from home, away from the traditional classroom environment and their fellow classmates. Additionally, online education programs lack the support resources available to students in traditional programs.
Support resources play a significant role in helping students stay on track and maintain their motivation. Many students also struggle with motivation when they don’t have the opportunity to interact with classmates who are facing similar challenges in learning the course material. Unfortunately, online education programs often offer limited or no peer interaction.
The loss of motivation can make it exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, to complete an education program. Unmotivated students often struggle with completing reading assignments and studying for tests.
Motivation serves as the driving force that keeps students working hard, especially when the subject matter becomes monotonous and uninteresting. As motivation is crucial for successfully completing online education programs, students lacking it are unlikely to succeed. Consequently, unmotivated students enrolled in online programs may benefit from delaying their education and re-enrolling when they feel more motivated.
Students who are struggling with motivation should not become too discouraged. There are numerous strategies that can be employed to regain motivation, including the following tips:
Establish Goals
Sustaining motivation can be achieved by setting goals and taking specific steps to accomplish them. It is most effective to establish small, attainable goals. A useful strategy is to write these goals on specific days of a calendar. Once you have successfully achieved a goal, cross off the corresponding day on the calendar. Accomplishing goals not only boosts self-confidence but also maintains motivation.
Create Communities
To combat the feeling of isolation in online learning, it is important to make an effort to communicate with fellow students. Many online programs offer platforms such as message boards or discussion forums where you can interact with others in your class. Take advantage of these resources by posting comments, asking questions, and engaging in discussions with your peers.
If direct communication with classmates is not available, consider exchanging emails or joining online study groups with other students enrolled in the same course. Collaborating with others can provide a sense of community and help you stay motivated.
In addition to connecting with classmates, don’t hesitate to discuss course material with family members or friends. Explaining concepts to others can deepen your understanding and provide a fresh perspective on the subject matter.
Furthermore, maintaining regular communication with your course instructor is crucial. Reach out to them with any questions or concerns you may have, or simply to discuss the course material. Instructors are there to support your learning journey and can provide valuable guidance and clarification.
By actively engaging in communication, whether with classmates, friends, or your instructor, you can enhance your learning experience, stay motivated, and foster a sense of connection in your online education journey.
Engage with Others
Make full use of the forums and chat rooms dedicated to the course you are currently enrolled in. Most online courses provide students with access to such online platforms. Taking advantage of these resources is highly beneficial as it allows for easy communication with your fellow classmates.
Through these online forums, you can offer support and encouragement to your classmates, pose questions, and even organize study sessions with other students who live in close proximity. Many students find these forums particularly useful for arranging virtual study sessions with their peers.
Leverage Social Media
Staying motivated can be facilitated by utilizing social media platforms within your network. As social beings, we thrive on recognition and rewards. When individuals feel acknowledged for their efforts, they are more likely to stay motivated. Social media can serve as a valuable tool in meeting this need.
On social media networks, people are already connected to friends and family. By sharing their progress online, individuals can receive encouragement and recognition for the work they have accomplished. Even a few congratulations can boost one’s confidence and provide the motivation to continue their educational journey. However, the benefits of social media go beyond seeking recognition.
Social media can also foster accountability. By regularly posting updates and sharing them with friends and family, individuals can keep their social circles informed about their progress. This involvement naturally engages close friends and family members in supporting their educational endeavors.
During times when progress may slow down, these individuals often become the ones asking questions and inquiring about the person’s progress. These simple requests for updates can help individuals stay focused on completing their online courses.
By leveraging social media, individuals can tap into the power of recognition, support, and accountability within their network. Sharing progress updates and engaging with friends and family on these platforms can provide the necessary motivation to overcome challenges and achieve success in online learning.
Use Supportive Tools
Maintaining focus while working from home can be challenging, as the absence of supervision can lead to distractions. In a traditional classroom setting, both instructors and peers help keep students accountable and focused, especially during group projects. Thus, accountability is crucial for staying motivated in online courses.
Fortunately, there are software tools available to assist students in staying on track and motivated. One common distraction when working from home is the temptation of websites and social media platforms. However, there are now browser plugins that can be downloaded to prevent users from accessing these distracting websites.
These plugins can either limit the time spent on such websites or completely block access to them. Additionally, there are apps that track the time spent on specific tasks, helping users identify moments of distraction throughout their day. By understanding their own habits, students can develop strategies to maintain focus and stay productive.
By utilizing these software tools, students can enhance their ability to stay accountable and focused while completing online courses. These tools provide valuable support in minimizing distractions and improving time management, ultimately aiding in maintaining motivation and achieving success.
Treat Online Courses like Traditional Ones
One of the challenges of studying from home is the temptation to treat online courses as a vacation. It’s easy to get too comfortable by wearing pajamas and adopting a relaxed mindset while working on online assignments. However, this can hinder productivity. To overcome this pitfall, it is beneficial to approach online courses with the same level of seriousness as traditional ones.
To establish a more structured approach, it is important to create a daily routine that mirrors a typical on-campus schedule. Set a consistent wake-up time and start your online work at the same designated time each day. Treat your study time as you would a regular class. However, it doesn’t end there.
Instead of staying in pajamas, dress up as if you were attending an actual course. Put on clothing that strikes a balance between comfort and being presentable enough to step out at any moment. Creating an effective working environment is crucial for maintaining focus and motivation. By adhering to a schedule and dressing appropriately for classes, you can enhance your mindset and productivity.
By treating online courses with the same level of dedication and professionalism as traditional courses, you can establish a routine, optimize your focus, and maintain motivation throughout your learning journey.
But Don’t be Afraid to Take Breaks
While it is important to treat online coursework with a similar level of dedication as in-person classes, one advantage of working from home is the opportunity to take breaks. Breaks are beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.
Physically, regular breaks allow you to stand up and engage in movement, promoting healthy circulation and maintaining a normal metabolism. However, the greatest advantage of taking breaks lies in their positive impact on your mental state. Prolonged focus on a single task can lead to decreased concentration, reduced productivity, and overall dissatisfaction.
Taking breaks approximately every half hour or so can help rejuvenate your mind and restore focus. During these breaks, it is beneficial to stretch, take a short walk, or have a drink of water. However, it is important to keep the breaks brief and avoid getting engrossed in unrelated tasks that may further distract you, such as playing games or watching TV shows.
An ideal break should not exceed ten minutes, and it is crucial to promptly return to your work to maintain focus on your courses. Fortunately, there are apps available that can assist in limiting break time and help you quickly resume your work without significant delays. These tools can be useful in ensuring that breaks remain within a reasonable timeframe and do not disrupt your overall focus and productivity.
By incorporating regular and purposeful breaks into your study routine, you can support both your physical and mental well-being, allowing for improved focus, productivity, and overall satisfaction in your online coursework.
Don’t Ignore Nutrition
You’re absolutely right that nutrition plays a vital role in staying motivated and maintaining focus. What we eat directly affects our energy levels, cognitive function, and overall well-being, all of which impact our ability to stay on task and learn effectively.
When our nutrition is poor, we often experience fatigue and a lack of focus. It’s important to prioritize a balanced diet to sustain optimal cognitive performance. Fruits and vegetables should be the foundation of our meals, as they provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support brain health. Carbohydrates, such as whole grains, provide a steady release of energy, while lean proteins and dairy products supply necessary nutrients for optimal brain function.
On the other hand, indulging in excessive junk food, sugar, caffeine, and refined carbohydrates can lead to blood sugar spikes and subsequent crashes. These fluctuations in energy levels can make it difficult to maintain focus and productivity. A well-balanced meal, comprising a combination of nutrient-dense foods, helps stabilize blood sugar levels and provides a consistent source of energy throughout the day.
By prioritizing a healthy and balanced diet, individuals can enhance their ability to stay focused, retain information, and sustain motivation. Proper nutrition supports overall cognitive function and contributes to a more productive and successful learning experience.
Self-Encouragement and Vision
You make an excellent point about the importance of envisioning the future and encouraging oneself as underrated methods for staying motivated. Often, when taking a course, whether in-person or online, it can be challenging to maintain motivation because the end goal may feel abstract or disconnected from the daily coursework.
To address this, it is valuable to establish a clear vision of where your education will ultimately lead you. This could involve picturing a successful and fulfilling career or finding satisfaction in a specific role. By connecting your coursework to this vision, even the mundane and frustrating moments can be seen as stepping stones toward your desired future.
When faced with challenges or moments of frustration during your coursework, reminding yourself of the bigger picture and the future you have envisioned can be a powerful source of motivation. It serves as a reminder that each task, no matter how small, contributes to your overall progress and success.
By mentally connecting your daily coursework with your long-term vision, you can find the encouragement and determination needed to persevere through difficult moments. This simple yet powerful mindset shift can help you overcome discouragement and stay focused on the ultimate goal you have set for yourself.
Overall, by envisioning the future and using it as a source of motivation, you can maintain a positive mindset and power through challenging moments, ultimately achieving the success you have envisioned for yourself.
Work and Life balance
You are absolutely right that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for avoiding burnout and staying motivated in your courses. Taking on an excessively heavy workload and neglecting personal life can have detrimental effects on your well-being and overall motivation.
Research has consistently shown that a poor work-life balance can lead to resentment, decreased productivity, and ultimately, a loss of motivation. In some cases, individuals may even feel compelled to leave their organizations or quit their studies altogether due to the overwhelming stress and dissatisfaction caused by an imbalance.
To prevent this from happening, it is essential for students to take charge of creating a healthy work-life balance. This involves setting and sticking to a schedule that includes designated times for coursework, as well as time for personal activities, relationships, and leisure.
Schedules serve not only to keep you on track with your tasks but also to remind you when it is time to step away and give yourself a break. It is important to prioritize and allocate time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Spending time outdoors, engaging in hobbies, and nurturing relationships with family and friends are all essential components of a balanced and fulfilling life.
Neglecting these aspects of life can lead to frustration, decreased motivation, and ultimately burnout. By incorporating regular breaks and leisure activities into your schedule, you can recharge, regain focus, and maintain a healthy mindset throughout your coursework.
Remember, taking care of your overall well-being and enjoying a fulfilling personal life is just as important as your academic pursuits. By finding that delicate balance between work and personal life, you can sustain motivation, enhance your overall satisfaction, and achieve success in your studies.
Indulge in some Rewards
It’s crucial for students to remember to take a step back and reward themselves for their achievements while navigating through their coursework. The challenges of taking a course can sometimes be overwhelming, and stress can accumulate over time.
To break the cycle of stress, students should make it a point to reward themselves when they succeed. Whether it’s completing a challenging project or achieving a high score on a test, students should pause and acknowledge their accomplishments. Even simple rewards can offer a much-needed respite from the stress of coursework and serve as motivation to keep progressing in their studies.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies and actively engaging in your online education, you have the potential to earn a valuable degree that can unlock numerous opportunities for you. Make the most of the flexibility offered by online courses, allowing you to study in a space and time that suits you best.
Regardless of whether you pursue your degree in a traditional in-person setting, online, or through a hybrid approach, take pride in your achievement and be eager to explore the new possibilities that await you upon completion. Embrace the knowledge and skills you have acquired, and confidently seek out the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
