Staying motivated: 5 best online learning practices
The convenience and flexibility of online learning have made it a popular choice among those looking to study a university degree. While online learning offers students the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge from the comfort of their own homes, it also comes with the challenge of staying motivated and engaged. In this blog, we will explore five tips for online learning success.
5 tips for online learning success
1. Set up a productive environment
One of the most helpful tips for online classes is to make sure you have a space to work in that allows for productivity. The best place to choose for this would be a quiet room in your home where you are least likely to be disturbed.
Creating a dedicated study space will allow you to be more productive, as you will associate the environment with learning and focus. You will also be able to keep your study materials in one place, making sure you can stay organised.
2. Establish a routine
Understanding when you are most productive is an important part of online learning. If you are aware of when you are most likely to get high-quality work done, you can plan your studying and daily goals around this time.
To make sure you are being productive, you need to stay up to date with your class schedule and check your email regularly. This will help you ensure you are focusing on the right things when studying asynchronously (independent study).
3. Use technology effectively
You need a laptop or desktop, working microphone and webcam so you can take part in lessons.
Keep your webcam on, where possible, especially during seminars and live tutorials. Being able to see who you are talking to helps everyone engage more fully in live discussions and group activities.
One of our top tips for online learning success is to have your microphone on mute when joining a live class and keep it muted unless you want to speak. This will limit unnecessary distractions and excessive noise. During class sessions, your teacher will let you know if you should raise your hand or use the chat function to speak or ask a question.
4. Stay motivated and focused
It can be difficult to stay on task when learning in an online environment, however, it can be made easier by eliminating distractions. You should let others know you will be unavailable at certain times of the day to avoid interruptions.
It is also a good idea to set your social media status to ‘do not disturb’. There are numerous productivity apps you can download that limit the time you can spend scrolling online.
Taking breaks is important when it comes to staying motivated. The best way of doing this is the refresh, then restart method. If you are becoming overwhelmed with your workload, take a short break and do something that refreshes your mind, such as listening to music or taking a short walk.
Exercise will make you feel more energised and will allow you to work better and stay more focused.
5. Review and reflect on progress
Engaging with feedback will allow you to see not only the areas you are doing well in but also where you could improve. Ensure you are reading any feedback and asking questions if there is anything you don’t understand. This will help you study more effectively and efficiently.
Why Study Group Digital Learning?
By choosing a Study Group Digital Learning programme, you can prepare for university study online from wherever you are in the world. Our programmes allow you to progress to your choice of undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a range of top UK universities.
All our programmes are delivered using insendi, our digital learning experience platform. They are tailored to your needs to help you develop the academic, English language and subject-specific skills needed for university study, while giving you the flexibility to study around any existing commitments you may have.
Students receive high quality academic support, just like on campus students. Highly qualified tutors and support from the digital learning team are available to students at every stage, from induction through to university progression.
During your study, you will receive support and guidance in choosing which university suits you. Once you have successfully completed your programme, you will be ready to study at a UK university that is right for you.
Find out the entry requirements and fees to study a Study Group Digital Learning programme and take your first steps into the UK’s world renowned education system.
FAQs
What are the 5 advantages of online learning?
- Flexibility – create a study schedule that works for you.
- Convenience – study from anywhere in the world.
- Customisation – create your own study environment.
- Increased interaction – tutors and support staff are available at the click of a button.
- Cost-effective – online learning has lower course fees and there is no need to pay for travel or accommodation.
Why do students prefer online learning?
Online learning allows students to have complete control over their learning, as they can work at their own pace from anywhere in the world.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when learning online?
Some of the most common online learning mistakes are:
- Poor time management
- Not forming a peer network
- Underestimating the workload
- Not attending instructor office hours when you need help.