Studying entirely online has become the norm rather than the exception these days, creating countless opportunities no matter your location or circumstances. While this learning style offers numerous advantages, it may not resonate with everyone. Those who thrive in the online learning environment are often using strategies to boost their success. The challenge lies in maintaining focus and motivation when navigating learning independently. If you incorporate the following eight study methods, you can achieve greater career advancement and personal development on your own terms.

1. Set Clear Goals

Setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-sensitive) helps you stay focused and organised. Clarifying short-term and long-term objectives lets you track your progress and maintain motivation. Short-term goals create small wins that will boost your confidence, while long-term goals offer a broader timeline for success. It’s a helpful approach that increases your motivation and encourages you to be accountable. So, you’re more likely to stay on track to achieve your study goals.

2. Create a Study Schedule

Effective time management is crucial for success in an online learning environment. Resources like planners, digital calendars, and apps can help you allocate time for lessons, assessments, and revisions. Explore digital tools like Google Calendar and set reminders to help you meet deadlines and allow for dedicated study times. Similarly, time-management apps, such as Trello or even just an old-fashioned to-do list, help break down larger projects into manageable tasks. When you create and follow a structured study schedule, you can enhance your learning and thrive online.

3. Designate a Study Space

Creating a practical and inviting environment is a great study method for enhancing your learning experience. Creating a clutter-free dedicated study space can significantly improve your focus and productivity during online learning. Consider the following:

• Ergonomically designed furniture for comfort, such as a supportive chair and a desk at the right height.
• Adequate lighting is crucial, and using natural light is even more beneficial. But if that’s not feasible, choose a quality desk lamp that minimises eye strain.
• Add personal touches, like motivational quotes or inspiring artwork, which can help promote a positive study atmosphere. Find more detailed information on creating a beautiful and productive study area here.

4. Stay Organised

Navigating online learning can pose unique challenges, especially if you’re not naturally organised. But, even without an organised brain, there’s no need to feel overwhelmed because you can embrace this great study method with the right resources at your fingertips. Digital tools such as task management apps can help you track deadlines and assessments, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks. You can also organise course materials through digital or physical folders categorised by subject, saving valuable study time. Similarly, Note-taking apps or neatly organised binders can help minimise last-minute stress and create a more structured and productive study environment.

5. Take Regular Breaks

Consider implementing great study methods like the Pomodoro Technique to combat burnout and boost retention of study materials. This method promotes a balance between periods of intense online study and well-deserved breaks. When you combine focused bursts of productivity, followed by rest intervals, you allow your mind to recharge and enhance your ability to absorb and retain important information. It’s a great way to make studying more enjoyable and reinforce a sustainable learning schedule.

6. Seek Help When Needed

It’s crucial to reach out for assistance when facing challenges in understanding course materials. If you’re studying with us, don’t hesitate to contact your tutor via email, who can provide valuable insights and help you with complex topics. Remember, asking for help is a proactive step towards success, leading to a deeper understanding and enhancing your online learning experience.

7. Enrich Your Learning

Don’t be reluctant to explore resources beyond the standard course materials to significantly enhance your learning experience. Engage in additional reading, explore scholarly articles, and view informative videos suggested in your course that relate to your specific subject or topic of interest. When you take this initiative, you will not only deepen your understanding but also broaden your perspective, allowing you to grasp and apply complex concepts more successfully.

8. Self-Reflect and Adjust

Regular self-reflection on your learning methods, measuring your progress, and adjusting your strategies are crucial for continuous improvement and to ensure the successful completion of your course. This practice helps you identify strengths and areas for growth, enabling a more effective learning experience.

 

Incorporating these great study methods makes you more likely to succeed in your online learning. It takes discipline, organisation, and active engagement, but anyone can thrive in an online learning environment! So, we encourage you to use these methods to enhance your professional development and achieve your study and career goals.

Ready to boost your career through online learning? Enrol in one of our professional development courses and turn ‘someday’ into ‘day one’! Simply contact one of our Course Consultants today at 1300 76 2221 or via Live Chat to explore your options.