Online courses and programs have become more and more common, and for good reason: it’s convenient for students and even professionals who wish to study at the comforts of their home, and can reduce the costs for both the enrollees and the school (as they no longer need rooms and other physical assets and overhead costs). However, many are still failing their online courses, with some studies showing around 50% failure rate in internet-enrolled courses.
So, whether you’re taking an online course on certain languages such as Japanese or Mandarin, or studying a full program to get your paralegal certificate through paralegal online schools, it’s important that you develop good study habits and follow these tips so that you won’t only pass the course, but also make the most out of your online schooling experience:
Meet the (Technical) Requirements
By requirements, we don’t mean the projects and other assignments assigned to you, but even before you enroll in your online course, you should make sure that you meet the technical requirements of the course. Before you enroll, it’s important that you have a stable internet connection, and the necessary devices (computer/laptop, webcam, scanner) needed for your course. Many students end up failing either because they’re not able to get their modules or attend the live classes due to technical issues. More importantly, your daily schedule should allow you to take the online class or courses — if you’re working part-time or full-time, make sure that your work schedule doesn’t cross with your work schedule.
Time Management
You should treat your online course like an actual job wherein you have to manage your time properly, and also schedule your projects, assignments, and other requirements wisely. If you’re both working or busy at home and taking an online course, you’ll want to plot out your weekly schedule and stick to it. You’d also have to allocate time for studying for your online course’s exams.
Optimize Your Study Space
One reason why classrooms are conducive for learning is that they’re designed for minimal to zero distraction. So, when you’re doing your online course or study, make sure that you have a designated work or study space that’s free from food, videos, games, and noise. You’d want to be “in the zone” physically and mentally, so find a good quiet spot at home with a desk and ample lighting and a comfortable temperature, and let that be your designated study space.
Participate
This may be the most underrated study habit, but active participation both in online studies and in the classroom can help you learn more. When you actively join in on the online class by asking or answering questions can help you better understand, be more involved, and be more motivated in class. If your course is more module-oriented, then don’t hesitate to ask your instructors for tips and other clarifications if there are any.
Conclusion
Online courses and programs are a gift. They allow you to study, learn and even be certified without leaving your home, letting you take care of household chores, take care of kids, or even get a part-time job easily. But as with all gifts, we shouldn’t take them for granted, so it’s best to take these study tips and habits at heart so you can succeed in whichever online course you’re enrolled to, and get the most out of it.