How to Be a Successful Online Learner
Learning online is different from learning in the classroom. Increase your chances for success by reviewing this list of tips for online-learning success.
Have a positive attitude.
The first step to being a successful online learner is to have a positive attitude toward learning. Imagine yourself as a successful student, and do the things a successful student would do. Positive thinking sets you on the path to achieving your goals.
Be engaged.
Online programs present their material in a variety of ways. Some programs have on-screen teachers who help you understand important course concepts. Other programs ask you to complete long reading assignments. Still others ask you to complete activities online. In all of these cases, be engaged. If there is an on-screen teacher, listen well. If there are materials to read, read them with the goal of understanding them. If there are online activities, immerse yourself in the experience. An active learner is a successful learner.
Be organized.
As an online learner, you need to keep track of the due dates of your assignments, projects, and reports. Keep an assignment notebook. If your online program lists the required assignments in an online calendar, be sure to check your calendar regularly. Being organized keeps you on task.
Manage your time.
Online learning allows you to learn at your own pace, but it also requires you to manage your own time. If you are taking more than one class, it can be tempting to focus all of your effort on your favorite subject while ignoring one you like less. While it is great to dive deep into subjects that interest you, make sure you do not fall behind in your other classes. Needing to catch up later can add unnecessary stress to your school day. Instead, create a schedule that allows you to complete each course in the required time. If you fall behind one day, don’t panic. Instead, make a new plan that allows you to catch up. Whether you are a fast-paced or slow-paced learner, be disciplined and do not procrastinate. Make each minute count.
Communicate with your teacher.
Many online learners do not get to see a teacher face-to-face. Still, online teachers are important! Student-teacher communication is key to successful online learning. Online teachers are dedicated to helping you succeed. If you are struggling to keep up, or if you do not understand a concept, let your teacher know. Online programs offer many different ways to communicate with your teachers. Be sure to use them. Do not wait until you get a failing grade, and do not sit back and wait for your teacher to get in touch with you. Take advantage of all of the communication tools at your disposal, and let your teacher know what you need.
Recognize your successes.
Success is not just something to look forward to after you complete a course. It is something you can experience every day. Keep a journal or notebook of things you have learned that are relevant to you. If you have learned something today that you did not know yesterday, celebrate your success today. According to the article, what action is key to success in online learning?
