I listened in on a recent Webinar about online learning. What I found interesting was the shared belief amongst the experts that the line between online and traditional education was blurring. In fact, one expert stated that traditional universities are adopting the online learning model as a way to enhance the educational benefits it provides their students. In a way, online learning is a trendsetter for education in general. This got me thinking about online learning trends I’ve been noticing and why it’s becoming such a popular choice for adults and working professionals. Read the full story

Keep a diary of everything you do for three days to determine how you’re spending your time. Look for time that can be used more wisely. For example, could you take a bus or train to work and use the commute to catch up on reading? If so, you could free up some time to exercise or spend with family or friends.

(source: MayoClinic.com)

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Don’t be fooled. Just because online education is flexible to meet the growing demands of adult students does not mean it is for students who do not wish to put forth any effort.

In any online class, you will have to work harder than in an on ground class because everything in the online environment is written, not spoken. This requires more time than most students expect. Thus, there is a more significant time commitment involved with online courses. It is important that you set aside study time away from family members and distractions.

If you fit the slacker-type student, you will quickly find online education frustrating and place blame where blame should not be placed. Some students realize this way too late into an online course and then drop out.

(Source: Online Learning Checklist and Preparation Steps by Deborah Leonard Mertz)

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Once you’ve enrolled into your online degree program, you should create a document with all the important contact information you might need – like the computer help desk, business office, the advising office, the department teaching your course, and the library. Print it out, then stick it on your fridge or on top of your nightstand for easy access. It’ll save you tons of time when you’re in the middle of technology crisis while trying to submit your final term paper. Schools vary greatly in how their Web sites are laid out, but most provide some sort of “contact us” page with links, numbers, and e-mails for all the services you will need as an online student.

- Online Learning Tips Staff

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