TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL ONLINE LEARNING

-Prof. Supriya Patil-Desai

 There was a time when earning a university degree meant physically attending in-person classes, which frequently posed challenges for working professionals or those with complicated schedules. Now, because of advances in technology, it’s easier than ever to seek out a course of study that gives the pliability you would like , whether through traditional in-person classes, online learning, or a mix of the 2 . Online learning has taken the planet by storm. Nearly 6 million students are enrolled in online courses through colleges and universities, as an example , but the web learning marketplace extends far beyond degree programs. 

 The advantages that online learning offers include flexibility, reduced cost, networking opportunities, access to expertise, increased instructor- student time and ease in balancing work and family commitments. It’s a misconception, that online degrees are easier than their on-campus counterparts. a web program demands an equivalent focus and motivation as is required during a traditional classroom setting. Online courses present challenges if you’re not prepared. But, if you develop skills for effective online learning, you’ll find the courses are often a superb alternative to a standard classroom setting. Here are some tips you'll use to organize yourself for self-directed learning and to stay your study habits on target for max knowledge absorption and retention. 

 ➦Treat it like a ‘real’ course: 

Many people jump into online courses with a lackadaisical attitude. If you're taking that approach, you’ll cheat yourself out of valuable content. Approach online courses and studying a bit like you'd if you were sitting during a classroom, right under a professor’s nose. When it involves online classes, you would like to possess the discipline to take a seat down and say, “I am getting to work on this,” also because the dedication to truly follow through.  

1. 
   

One of the simplest ways to make sure follow through is to recollect that you simply are paying to require this online course, even as you'd for a standard , in-person class. You'll also ask someone to function your accountability partner. He or she is going to sign up with you often, ask about your progress, and supply any needed encouragement. 

           ➦Confirm the courses technical requirements:

The main difference between studying online and studying within the classroom is that you’re liable for the training environment. In most cases, any computer with internet access will suffice. However, some courses involve more serious hardware. Try to not check in for online courses until you recognize the technical requirements. If you can’t meet them yet, postpone the course until you'll buy or borrow what you would like. Lately, online instructors often use live sorts of teaching, like webinars. If your internet goes out during one among those events, you can’t participate within the conversation alongside your other classmates. Signal boosters, extra modems, and other technological fixes can help improve your access to reliable internet reception . 

            ➦Create a dedicated study space: 

It’s easier to recall information if you’re within the same place where you initially learned it, so having an exclusive space reception to take online courses can make your learning simpler. Remove any distractions from the space, and if possible, make it away your bed or sofa. A transparent distinction between where you study and where you're taking breaks can assist you focus. Experiment to get which sort of setting boosts your productivity. Whether your workspace is your table or the corner in your house, just confirm you've got a robust internet connection to access your coursework. 

  ➦ Practice Time Management:

This doesn’t mean you would like to seek out four-hour blocks, three days every week. Online learning is meant to be modular and versatile. You'll find 20 minutes to observe a brief video lecture and write a three-sentence reflection post. But in fact, other learning activities would require longer. Be planful and dedicate time to exercise or being with friends. 

Track the deadlines. Add important due dates to a calendar so you don’t miss important deadlines. The maximum amount as you'll, minimize distractions both in your physical environment and your digital environment. Close browser windows not relevant to your learning, keep the TV off, etc. began a transparent timetable for assignment deadlines, video conference lessons and group activities, and confirm you abide by it. 

           ➦Regular study breaks: 

To avoid the results of studying for too long, give yourself many breaks. Avoid watching a screen during these breaks. Yes, you ought to even avoid texting your latest squeeze. Explore the other parts of your life that involve different parts of your brain. You’ll thank yourself later. Resting your brain after learning is critical for high performance. If you discover yourself performing on a challenging problem without much progress for an hour, you need a break. Walking outside, taking a shower, or talking with someone can re-energize you and even offer you new ideas on the way to tackle that project. 

             ➦Active Participation 

Participate within the course’s online forum to assist you better understand course materials and have interaction with fellow classmates. This might involve commenting on a classmate’s paper on a discussion board or posting an issue a few project you’re performing on . Read what other students and your professor are saying, and if you've got an issue , invite clarification. confirm you're checking in as often as you'll , too. Set a goal to see in on the category discussion threads a day. And if you are do feel you are falling behind, speak up. Don’t wait until an assignment is nearly due, to ask questions or report issues. Email your professor and be proactive in posing for help. 

7.  

   ➦Actively take notes and feel free to ask questions: 

Taking notes can promote active thinking, boost comprehension, and extend your span. It’s an honest strategy to internalize knowledge whether you’re learning online or within the classroom. So, grab a notebook or find a digital app that works best for you and begin synthesizing key points. A well-designed learning experience will provide you with opportunities to practice, apply, and reflect your learning outside by connecting it to your lifestyle and work.  

The best online learners don’t hesitate to ask questions. By doing this, they avoid confusion, become more engaged with the content, broaden their knowledge, and deepen relationships with their classmates. 

             ➦Hold yourself accountable: 

Set goals at the start of the course and examine with yourself weekly. If you’re having trouble holding yourself responsible, pair up with a fellow classmate, or enlist the assistance of a spouse or friend to help you as an accountability partner. By being organized, proactive, and self-aware, you'll get the foremost from your online class even when life outside of the institute becomes chaotic. Ask yourself what you hope to accomplish in your course every day. Setting a transparent goal can assist you stay motivated and beat procrastination. The goal should be specific and straightforward to live , like “I’ll watch all the videos in Module 2 and complete the primary programming assignment.” And don’t forget to reward yourself once you make progress towards your goal! 

  ➦Review, Revise, Repeat:

 You didn’t think it had been over, did you? People learn throughout their lives. You’re constantly learning bits and pieces of latest information, but once you pursue a web course, you get an infusion of knowledge which will help your brain stay active and your mind engaged. Review this list of online study tips as you're employed through your online course. Upon completion of the course, try another one. The more you learn, the more satisfied you’ll feel. 

10. ➦Practice community and social learning: 
    

Virtually meet and interact together with your learning peers: you're not alone! Introduce yourself, answer questions posted by the trainer within the discussion forums, and answer your peers’ posts. Create a social network group: additionally to forums, create a definite space, like a Facebook group or a Whatsapp chat, for you and your classmates to attach, share interests, and support one another. Create virtual study groups: Keep the road open and find ways to connect with your learning peers in small study groups.