Despite the success rates, online learning can be very stressful. It requires a lot of time and energy on the students’ part to keep picking up that text book and staying on track. In a typical classroom, we find our motivation through the potential for pop quizzes, tests and group learning. But, with online learning, we lose that “classroom motivation” and have to find other ways to stay on-track.
If you’re considering enrolling into an online program, here are some other things to consider and see if it would be a good fit.
Time. Even though you’re not necessarily tied down by a schedule of quizzes, exams and papers online learning does require significant time, effort and energy to work successfully. Many online students work full-time and have a family. So, the question is – can you fit it into your already busy schedule? Can you set aside a couple hours each day/night to work on your courses?
Motivation. Self-motivation is a key factor. As I said early, you lose that “classroom motivation” of due dates and pop quizzes to keep you on track so you have to be someone who can self-motivate; create a set schedule and stick to it! If you have children or other family members in your home, make sure you have a quiet space where you can study and focus – or make regular visits to the library (or the park on a nice day) built around your own schedule to get your work done.
Community. To an extent, you lose that connection with other students. Group projects are, for many courses, impossible. If being able to physically collaborate and have face-to-face discussions is a major tool in your learning arsenal, than perhaps online learning is not the best fit. However, social networks have definitely changed the landscape of online learning. They’ve given students a platform to create peer groups where they can talk about their course work, achievements and even struggles within their online programs. These social networking sites have brought about a sense of community for online students – given virtual walls to the virtual classroom.
What suggestions would you make to someone considering online learning? Share your positive experiences and tips!