Time Management
One the key advantage of online degree program is it allows you to plan your learning schedule, at you own time and own pace. This key advantage of online degree program is also the key factor that cause many online student fail in completing their online degree program. Time management may be the biggest determination factor in succeeding at your online degree program.
You must be very proactive in your studies and take responsibility for your own learning, manage your time on your learning schedule, doing the assignment an constantly communicate with your professors and peers through online learning channel prepare by the school to solve your doubts and question of courses.
To master time management, first determine what time of day you think you will be most focused on your studies. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Do you concentrate best after a cup of coffee or after lunch? Once you narrow in on a time of day reserve a designated allotment of time to dedicate to your course.
Self-Motivated
Although getting your degree online does not mean that you are study alone because you still get connected with your professors and peers through online channels such as message board, chat, forum & etc, You won't find the professor, or another student reminding you to get to work, stay on task, or turn your assignments in on time; hence, you must be self-motivated to be successful.
Read & Understand in Electronic Text Format
Some online learning materials are in audio and video format, but most of them still in electronic text format. Be an online student, you need to do a lot of reading in text format rather than hearing the lectures' teaching. There are students who absorbed the knowledge faster with explanation in lecture hall, but to be a success online student, you need to be better in understanding the knowledge conveys in text format.
Place of Study
Some students need absolute silence while others can't seem to concentrate without noise in the background. No matter what your preference is, a place that is free from distractions is recommended. If you can't escape in-home interruptions, bring alone your laptop to library or a coffee shop. Schedule your designated study time when you can be in a distraction-free environment and your chances for success will increase and the time you need to devote to your course will decrease.
Seeking for Answers on Your Questions
Many online courses come with instructor support or mentor by an online lecturer so that students never feel lost or alone during the e-learning process. Don't be afraid to ask questions, you can always direct inquiries to your lecturer.
Online chat rooms, if provided, are another great resource for you to seek for answers. Online chat rooms give students a forum to meet other students taking the same course and ask questions or discuss assignments.
To be a success online student, you must be able to utilize the online resources provided by the school to communicate with your professors, peers and get your questions answered.
In Summary
In a nutshell, success in online learning requires self-discipline, organization, and the ability to use modern technology to communicate with your professors and peers.
Next "A Guide To Online Degrees" series, I will talk about online degree pricing. See you on "A Guide To Online Degrees - Considering Online Degree Pricing".
