Online learning — for better or worse — has become routine since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after the health crisis passes, the impact on your college and university education will endure.
How can you make the most of online learning at the post-secondary level? These tips can help you develop a routine and better absorb course material served up online:
Create a dedicated learning space
Research and compare several
online colleges and universities
Ensure that you have the
appropriate language skills
Take notes and engage in active
listening
Upgrade your internet assets
Use available technology
Create a Learning Space at Home
You may find it easier to establish a routine if you study in the same place every day. Do what you can to make the learning environment productive. This may mean choosing a space that’s free from distractions. Also, keeping it separate from your bed or couch helps create a clear distinction between work and relaxation. That way, when you take breaks from studying, you are physically separating the various areas of your home, dorm or student apartment.
Cost of Online and Distance Learning
According to EduCanada, costs vary widely depending on whether you’re seeking a diploma, certificate course, bachelor’s, or graduate degree. It also depends on which Canadian college or university you choose to attend. The choices can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, the government site has a search tool to help you compare the costs and other attributes of online learning programs.
Language and Academic Requirements
Most Canadian online universities and colleges conduct courses in French or English. To succeed in an online degree, it’s important to have good oral and written language skills. Check out the language and other entrance requirements prior to applying. This helps ensure that you can understand and process the information in an online environment.
How Important Is Taking Notes?
Online classes typically consist of recorded lectures and videos you can consume in your own time. This is one of the greatest benefits of the format. However, not everyone learns well from merely watching videos. Even though courses may come with notes and summaries, taking your own notes can help you process the information on a deeper level.
Active listening is critical. For best results, take notes as you watch the material and include any questions that you have. You can send a note to the professor to get clarification. Many online classes also have forums where you can talk to other students to get their take on concepts and discuss the course material.
Consider Upgrading Your Internet Access
If you rely on the coffee shop down the street or the public library for internet access, you’ll need to rethink your strategy to succeed in online college courses. Tuition and school-related expenses may take up most of your budget. However, reliable technology greatly relieves the strain of taking online courses. Consider a reliable internet connection part of the cost of attending school. Include it in your budget to help ensure you always have access to your e-learning environment.
Use Available Technology
Occasional technology glitches are unavoidable. If your computer crashes at 3 a.m., do you have a backup plan to save the day? Backing up your work to Google Docs or Dropbox allows you to access your work quickly. If you need to use another device to access classes for a few days, you will be grateful you did.
Online learning has some challenges but also many benefits. To succeed in your online courses, through school, college, or university, remember to follow the tips above.
