The 7 Most Common Mistakes of Distance Learners
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on May 01, 2019 by Joel Snyder Online courses can be a wonderful solution for those with a full-time job or busy schedule, but many distance learners struggle. Avoid these seven common mistakes to succeed in an online course. 1. Underestimating Online Courses Students enroll in online courses under the mistaken assumption that online courses will be easier than in-person lessons. However, online courses tend to require more reading and writing to ensure students learn the material. While some students are independent learners, others may need more accountability. Remember to view any course as a serious educational investment. 2. Use the Resources A benefit of online courses is that all the resources are provided. Take advantage of this material by reading documents closely and critically engaging with work. “Reviewing the provided materials will give students a clear understanding of course objectives, the time requirements of the course, and the grading standards their work will be measured against. Online courses give students the materials to succeed, so make sure to use them” says James Conover, an Elearning Consultant at Writemyx and NextCoursework. 3. Define A Study Space Online courses may seem like the perfect solution, but it’s important to carve out a designated study space. Whether this is a home office, a kitchen counter, or a café with internet, a specified area meant for studying can help increase focus and decrease outside distractions. For example, if a student lives with roommates or has a family, a designated study space can help set personal and educational boundaries to ensure the student reaches their educational goals. 4. Be Social Students enrolled in online courses can often feel isolated. Without in-person lectures, it can be hard to engage with mentors or other students. While it may not be possible as an online student to attend campus every week, try to participate in relevant events like university readings or guest lectures. Consider establishing bi-weekly study dates with a group of students to review challenging concepts. Remember online courses can only benefit students if they take advantage of the resources provided. Reach out to the professor with questions and build an adequate support system. 5. Stay Disciplined Flexibility is a big draw for students enrolled in online courses because it allows them to set their own pace. However, it is important students balance personal requirements with their course requirements. Online courses are not secondary to in-person lectures. Without a clear timeline and attainable goals, it can be easy to fall behind. It is key students are realistic about the course load they can handle. At the start of each week, create a timetable listing personal goals, required reading, and any deadlines. Add built-in rewards to celebrate progress and stay motivated. 6. Believe in Yourself Online courses create an isolated learning environment, which can leave students without the peer support of in-person lectures. In fact, distance learners may never meet the other students in their courses face-to-face. This means students deal with energy slumps, the stress of low grades, or the consequences of falling behind on their own. “Students considering online courses should think about how to keep their motivation up when dealing with these situations. For example, to stay focused students could leave motivational quotes in their designated study space or add thirty minutes of personal time to their weekly timetable as a reminder to take a break” explains Judy Good, a Tutor at Brit student and Australia2write. 7. Recognize Your Learning Style Online courses are convenient, but not all students are suited for independent, linguistic-based learning. Students should consider if they work best with activities, instructional videos, or in a group. If an online course does not provide materials suited for a student’s learning style, then that student should be honest about whether an online course will benefit them. Building a solid support system early on can help students facing challenges as the course progresses. It is also important students reach out to professors to discuss difficult concepts or to request additional resources. However, in the end, for some students’ online courses may not be the appropriate choice. Remember, all courses should be viewed as an educational investment. While online courses could be a solution for some individuals, prospective distance learners need to consider if they have the skills to succeed. Students who are dedicated, independent learners will be sure to thrive. Joel Syder is an education writer and public health worker at PhD Kingdom and Academic brits. He enjoys helping people to learn more about elearning and education as well as creating articles about things that excite him at Origin writings. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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