Online learning is a tool that brings education to everyone, regardless of age, lifestyle, or learning goals. Keep reading to find out more about how online learning works and how to make it as effective as possible for your personal education journey.
What Is Online Learning?
Online learning uses digital platforms instead of traditional classrooms to create your educational experience. Students navigate virtual modules, watch videos, and complete assignments online.
It offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace from anywhere with an internet connection. Interaction with instructors and peers happens through forums, chats, or video conferencing. Assessments and feedback are typically delivered electronically.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Classes
In online learning, “synchronous” and “asynchronous” define the timing of your classes. Synchronous classes involve real-time engagement where students and instructors participate simultaneously through live sessions, video conferencing, or online chats. For a synchronous class, you have to be online at a certain time.
The upside of synchronous classes is that you get immediate interactions and feedback. It’s more of a guided style of learning. You’ll likely have a cohort of classmates learning at the same time as you. However, it’s the slightly less flexible option because you have to stick to a schedule.
Asynchronous classes, on the other hand, allow you to access pre-recorded lectures, discussion forums, and assignments at your own pace. This structure can accommodate varied schedules and geographical differences, but it limits real-time interaction and feedback.
The choice between synchronous and asynchronous formats depends on individual preferences, time constraints, and the nature of the learning objectives. Different online platforms offer their own methods of learning. When considering online classes, think about your schedule and needs when choosing synchronous vs. asynchronous courses.
15 Tips for Effective Online Learning
No matter what type of classes you take, it’s essential to set yourself up for success. These 15 tips for online learning will help you make the most of your educational experience.
1. Set Goals
Get started with your online learning path by setting clear and attainable goals. Break down your long-term objectives into specific daily tasks for each course: outline the chapters to study, set page targets, or identify assignments to complete. Achieving these small victories contributes to your overall success.
2. Try the “Chunking” Method for Studying
The “chunking method” involves segmenting your time into focused intervals rather than long study sessions. The idea is to begin with small tasks, committing to just 10 minutes of work, which may lead to more extended study sessions. Once you complete a task, reward yourself with a break, like grabbing a snack or taking a short walk. This approach not only combats burnout but also reinforces a healthy, sustainable learning routine.
3. Designate a Study Space
Create a dedicated study space that fosters an atmosphere for effective learning. Minimize distractions as much as possible by creating an area separate from your relaxation space. This will train your brain to associate it with focused work.
Try to make the environment as quiet as you can, especially when participating in live classes. This not only aids your concentration but also prevents background noise interference during discussions or presentations.
Keep your study space organized and tidy, as a clutter-free environment can positively impact your mindset and workflow.
4. Use a Calendar or Planner
Manage your online learning more efficiently by using a calendar or planner to organize deadlines, tests, and instructor office hours. Structure your days by dedicating specific time slots for each course. This can help you achieve a healthy school-life balance.
5. Hold Yourself Accountable
Treat online learning with the same seriousness as in-person classes. Respect your instructor and peers — actively engage in discussions and meet your deadlines.
Also, communicate with your family and friends about your online learning needs, including a designated study space and quiet time. Doing so not only reinforces personal accountability but also enables a support system of loved ones to keep you on track when you face challenges.
6. Avoid Multitasking
Maximize your study time by steering clear of multitasking. Juggling multiple tasks may seem efficient but can actually hinder your ability to pay attention and retain information. Commit to focusing on one task at a time to more effectively complete your to-do list. This approach not only streamlines your workflow but also enhances the quality of your results.
7. Stay Engaged
Just because you’re learning in a virtual space doesn’t mean you don’t have to stay actively engaged in your online class. Take thorough notes and regularly review and recap information before each class. Pay attention to instructor feedback, including comments on essays or quizzes, to identify areas where you can do better. Utilize office hours for clarifications and seek guidance from instructors or peers. Join class discussions and study groups so you can get the most out of your online learning path.
8. Seek Out Opportunities to Interact With Your Peers
Online learning doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavor. Try to actively seek opportunities to engage with peers, especially if you’re in asynchronous or self-paced environments. The absence of traditional in-person interactions provides you with different opportunities to leverage platforms like GroupMe or Microsoft Teams to create and maintain a sense of community with your classmates.
Platforms like Facebook or WhatsApp allow you to foster connections and mutual support beyond formal forums. You might create virtual study groups for collaboration and shared learning experiences with your cohort. This intentional effort to connect with fellow students not only combats isolation but also enriches your learning journey by providing diverse perspectives and shared insights.
9. Learn the Classroom Setup
Some platforms give you early access to your classroom. If so, take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with your online class setup before you begin your course. As you look around, make a list of contact information for key resources, including TAs and technical support, so you can address any problems as soon as they pop up.
If video conferencing software is required, try testing it out before your first lecture, so you’re ready to go on Day 1. Since some classes have cloud-based assignments, check that you have the necessary account details for platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox in advance of deadlines. Being prepared ahead of time will help minimize distractions and other avoidable problems once classes begin.
10. Check Your WiFi Connection
Online learning success depends on a strong WiFi connection. If your home WiFi is unreliable, explore free and stable options like your local library. Having access to an ethernet cable and outlet provides a backup in case of WiFi emergencies. Plan ahead by downloading and saving all course materials to your computer for offline access and minimal disruptions during study sessions.
11. Avoid Procrastination
Procrastination can happen to anyone at any time, but it’s an even bigger challenge when taking asynchronous or self-paced classes that don’t meet on a regular schedule. Combat procrastination by implementing effective strategies. Study buddies are great ways to interact with your peers and stay accountable through regular check-ins.
Additionally, there are many productivity tools, such as to-do lists, alarms, reminders, or Pomodoro timers that help you structure and manage your study sessions. Consider the real-life applications of the work you're doing — and remember why you’ve chosen this path — to keep yourself motivated.
12. Cultivate a Positive Mindset
As with most other things in life, a positive mindset can go a long way, especially when facing challenging online classes. Remind yourself of the reasons why you’re taking these courses, whether it's career advancement or personal development.
Visualize success by imagining yourself overcoming obstacles and excelling in your studies, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
13. Keep an Open Mind
Learners with an open mind are more likely to find success in the dynamic and collaborative online learning environment. The nature of online learning automatically opens it up to different ages and experience levels of learners.
As you learn, try to embrace the opportunity to benefit from the knowledge of older, more experienced peers while letting the energy and curiosity of younger learners keep you engaged. Everyone is on this learning journey together, and compassion for your peers will help you get the most out of your study time.
14. Take Care of Yourself
A healthy lifestyle is just as important as your educational journey. Try positive self-talk to manage anxiety. Adequate rest, nutrition, and exercise can help you stay focused and energized. Schedule breaks for activities like walking, meditating, or connecting with loved ones to prevent burnout.
Be kind to yourself. Remember, breaks, stretches, and moments of relaxation are not only beneficial but essential to your overall productivity and mental health.
15. Find Relevant Classes
Beyond pursuing courses for personal interest, consider taking classes that align with your career path or are designed to save on college pre-requisite courses. Many online learning providers, like StraighterLine, offer diverse career paths, including technology, business, healthcare, and more.
Explore courses that can contribute meaningfully to your skill set or will get you where you want to go. For instance, technology enthusiasts may find coding or data science courses relevant, while those in business might benefit from finance or marketing classes.
Or, if you’re working toward your bachelor’s degree, identify standard pre-requisite courses for your desired college program, such as introductory mathematics or English composition, to efficiently progress toward your academic goals.
StraighterLine Is Your Best Source for Online Learning
StraighterLine’s online learning programs encourage student success, whether you’re taking classes to save money on college prerequisites or changing careers. We offer over 60 flexible, asynchronous courses that allow you to learn at your own pace. Each class is affordably priced and includes e-textbooks and 24/7 student support. The credits you earn with StraighterLine are transferable to over 150 partner schools, plus thousands of other colleges and universities that accept ACE Credit.
Browse our complete list of online courses to see how we can help you accelerate your learning journey.
