Member Article

5 online learning resolutions to make in 2016

Online students face a unique set of challenges; managing your own time, creating a work routine and keeping on top of your deadlines can be a tough test in self-discipline.

The isolation of studying alone can seem daunting, as can the workload that seems to pile up day-by-day. At the dawn of 2016, here are a few New Year’s resolutions to help you manage your online education.

1. Network with fellow students and with your instructors

One of the great things about studying online is that you come into contact with students and instructors from all walks of life. You’ll meet people from many different countries in various careers. Make sure to add them on LinkedIn or another professional social network and keep in regular contact. You never know when one of your fellow classmates might be able to connect you with a career opportunity!

2. Use technology to enhance your studies

Besides your school’s study platform or learning management system, take advantage of online libraries and databases to help with your studies. As an online student, you aren’t limited to simply reading textbooks or lengthy academic pieces. You have access to journal articles, news and opinion pieces, and industry-specific case studies.

3. Don’t procrastinate! Stay on track with the study schedule

Studying online is a big commitment, and it’s important to remain on schedule. If your school provides a study planner or timetable, make sure that you follow it. Not keeping on track week-by-week might mean that you miss assignment deadlines or that you have to pay costly fees to resit a module.

4. Get in the zone

Try to find a quiet library, home office, or other space away from the distraction of your friends, family, TV, and so on. You’ll find that your studies progress more rapidly when you focus on the tasks at hand.

5. Keep notes

You will be surprised at how much of what you learn through your course can be reused on the job or in a future career. Keep notes of what you learn and try to think of how you can apply what you’re learning to the ‘real world’.

Jeremy Bradley is Director of Academic Affairs at online education provider Study InterActive.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jeremy Bradley .