Tips for Successful Online Learning
Online learning is an opportunity to take control and responsibility for your own learning.
By being organized, proactive, and self-aware, you can get the most from your online class even when life outside of your course has become chaotic.
Here are four tips for Successful Online Learning:
1. Reflect on Your Learning
Reflect on your learning. This is one of the best ways of making your learning stick. The library has some helpful resources on reflection such as Learning journals: a handbook for reflective practice and professional development by Jennifer Moon and Kate Williams Reflective Writing.
You may now also find yourself reading from your PC or laptop rather than print text and material. You may have to adapt your note taking style for online material. Stick to a method that works best for you.
2. Time Management
As with all courses, online or otherwise, it is important to find ways to structure and optimize your time so that you learn best and keep your learning on track.
- Set aside time for learning
Set aside time for your learning. This may mean making a schedule or plan. Keep track of assignment deadlines, they will help to keep you focused.
- Minimize distractions
To make the most of your time, minimize distractions both in your physical environment and your digital environment. Close web browser tabs that are not relevant to your learning. Do your best to eliminate as many distractions as possible to ensure that you are maximizing your time efficiently.
- Take Study Breaks
Give yourself plenty of breaks. Schedule these breaks effectively. Get away from your study area and move around. If possible, get some fresh air and have a quick walk. Try to avoid looking at a screen during these breaks.
3. Create Your Study Space
Set up a comfortable place to work. By working there repeatedly, you’ll begin to establish a routine.
Some work best in a busy environment, while others work best in a quiet one. Experiment with different environments to figure out what works best for you and your productivity.
4. Communicate - Reach Out
Learning online can sometimes feel like that you are learning on your own, but it is important to remember you are not. Don’t forget your fellow participants. Try to stay in touch and support one another. Keep your Programme Director and Programme Co-ordinator informed. Make sure to reach out at any point with questions or concerns. Communicate - reach out.
References:
Joyce, L. (2020) ‘Tips for successful online learning’, edX Blog, Available at: https://blog.edx.org/tips-for-successful-online-learning/ (Accessed: 18 March 2020).
The Open University (2020) Study tips for online-only modules. Available at: https://help.open.ac.uk/study-tips-for-online-modules (Accessed: 18 March 2020).
Western Illinois University (2020) Tips for online learning success. Available at: http://www.wiu.edu/global_education/bgs/docs/Tips_for_Online_Learning_Success.pdf (Accessed: 18 March 2020).
