Studying Online: Strategies for Succeeding from Our Student Success Manager
The decision to study online can be a liberating one. You may be a working student. Or perhaps you have family obligations. Or maybe you just want the freedom that comes with online classes. Whatever the reason, remote learning has made it possible for students to reach their goals while balancing their busy lives. However, online learning requires some preparation.
Jerry Brockman, Student Success Manager for UOnline, has shared his top tips for online student success. Here are some strategies that you can use to ensure success in your virtual classrooms.
Designated Study Space
The first thing to consider when you are planning to study online is where you plan to study. Plan to have a designated study space that is quiet and free from distractions. You may even want to turn phone notifications off when you plan to study to help you stay focused.
Time Management
Jerry stresses that time management strategies are critical for success. Create a schedule that works within your life and stick with it. If you were attending an in-person class, you would need to go to that class each day at the same time. Online classrooms work best when the you have a consistent routine for coursework, assignments, and studying. If your schedule changes, be sure to update your study schedule.
One strategy that students find helpful is Time Blocking. This method allows you to set dedicated time each week for important projects.
Another tool that works well for students is to complete the task they are most likely to procrastinate on, in other words “Eat the Frog.” So, if you tackle that first, you save yourselves a lot of time and stress worrying about it.
“If it's your job to eat a frog, it's best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it's your job to eat two frogs, it's best to eat the biggest one first.” – Mark Twain
Jerry says, “Procrastination isn’t the personality flaw that society would have us believe. Rather, it’s very often a natural response to the stresses associated with a task that seem daunting or confusing so we tend to put off starting what may seem difficult to finish.” Even if you work well under pressure, it is always advised to review big assignments early and seek clarification if necessary.
“You won't always be motivated. That's why you need to be disciplined”
Jerry also wants students to be mindful of how much time they should be dedicating to each class. “For every 3-credit class a student takes, whether in person or online, they should plan to dedicate 6 to 9 hours per week to that class.”
“It’s easy for that time to get away from online learners, especially if classes are competing with jobs and families. Build a schedule, let your support system know what that schedule is, and stick to that schedule.”
Participation and Engagement
Your online classroom has opportunities for you to engage with your instructor and your classmates.
Ask questions, actively participate in the discussions and be willing to contribute your thoughts and ideas to the class.
Be sure to engage in the course readings, and watch the lectures your instructor posts as well.
Perhaps most of all, Jerry wants you to know that, “Just because you’re attending classes online and may never come to campus, that doesn’t mean you don’t have an entire campus of support available to help you find success while you’re pursuing your degree. College can be confusing, particularly for first-generation and non-traditional students. Reach out to your advisor and/or instructor if you need any help at all. It’s what we’re here for.”
Self-Care
One aspect of the online student experience often overlooked is mental and physical health. Regularly take breaks, get good sleep, practice stress management techniques, eat healthy, and exercise. As a UOnline Student, you have access to free Counseling Services as well.
Balancing your busy life and school can be challenging, so make sure to schedule some “me time” into your days. You deserve it!
If this is your first time taking online classes, it may take some practice to get into the groove. However, if you implement these strategies in your daily routine, you will do great!
For more helpful tips for being successful with your academics, check out the University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business College Success Workshop Series.