In this blog post, we introduce study tips which will help online learners successfully complete online courses at Onstudy Academy. It is important to keep in mind that any online learning requires time management skills, self-discipline, strong motivation and willpower. These ten study tips will help you stay focused and engaged when taking an online course.
- Know the learning expectations. Find out what you should be able to do by the end of each lesson or unit of study. This means to commit yourself and participate in the virtual lessons. You should complete all learning tasks and assignments on time. Be self-discipline
- Make sure you have reliable internet access. To avoid negative technological accidents, such as losing notes, always back up regularly using Cloud storage, Dropbox or Google Documents. The last two forms of storage will allow you to access your work from a smart phone or tablet (iPad).
- Find a quiet study space. In order for learning to occur, one must find a quiet, distraction-free and organized space. You should ask your friends, relatives and colleagues to respect your study space and consider turning off your phone and logging off of all social networks when studying.
- Identify your own learning objectives and goals. Let’s say you study the whole unit of Homeostasis in Biology 12 but realize that you need further clarification on the feedback mechanisms of hormonal actions. You should also revise all learning expectations of your course to ensure that you are meeting them. The course outline with its overall and specific expectations would make an excellent road map during your online learning.
- Create a study plan. Here are some practical tips:
- Plan ahead – never wait until the last day before an assignment is due. If you set your own deadlines, then stick to them. If you are going to travel or be away, then you can study ahead.
- Create an effective calendar – because online learning needs structure you should create a study calendar. Here you will set when learning goals should be accomplished. Your computer or mobile device comes with various types of calendar, use one that you can access and use easily.
- Create a to-do list – This list should be like a checklist where you can prioritize your study. For example, note-taking is a very important skill. You should remind yourself to complete notes after watching video lessons so that you increase the likelihood of retaining all information and then start linking or scaffolding what you are learning to get a bigger picture.
- Set yourself time limits – set time limits and deadlines to accomplish your learning goals. Let’s say you want to increase your learning speed from 2 to 3 or 4 lessons per week. You will be able to judge if it is good to increase speed or slow down.
- Stay on schedule – It is very easy to procrastinate so make sure you stay organized. If you have difficulty with new concepts or problem solving strategies, contact your online teacher and let him or her know so that they can help you create a consistent learning pace.
- Seek help when needed – when in doubt, you may look for answers to your online course-related questions own your own but if you still need clarification then you should reach out to your classmates through a forum on online discussion group and also to your teacher.
- Review, revise, repeat – regular revision of the material you have studied will improve your memory and help you better understanding what you are learning. Here is where the creation of your study-notes, flash cards and self-quizzes on key concepts will help you solidify your learning and feel confident.
- Take short study breaks – it is important to take short break to avoid fatigue. When taking a break, make sure you get away from your study space. A walk around the block will clear your mind and help you maintain balance, renew energy and get back to your studying with a clear mind.
- Take part in online forums or discussions – Learning does not occur only in isolation. By taking part in forums and posting questions, opinions, queries, you may learn from other students study tricks and strategies and also engage in new ideas and sharpen critical thinking skills.
- Keep yourself motivated – consider incorporating the following to your routine:
- Decide what your study hours would be like.
- Decorate your study space with inspirational notes, charts, posters, etc.
- Remind yourself of the reason why you took this course in the first place.
- Accept that there will be productive and less productive days
- Have a healthy snack to boost your energy.
- Reward yourself every time you complete a challenging task (E.g., score high on a test)
- Take some time for yourself from time to time.
- Stay positive and keep your chin up even when you feel a bit overwhelmed.
