Distance learning programs are not all that different from traditional learning programs, so studying for your courses won't be much different. The biggest difference you need to consider is the dependency of the learner. As a distance learner, you need to take the reigns of your own educational future. When it comes to studying, the responsibility lies on you and you alone. Below you will find 5 helpful study tips to help insure your success studying as a distance learner.
1. Know what is expected of you.
You should have access to a course syllabus, outline, or guide. In this document you will find all of your required materials, readings, assignments, and projects. Some instructors also include a breakdown of the course grading and late assignment policies. You should become familiar with this as soon as class starts, and then frequently through the duration of the course.
2. Be wise with your time.
Distance learning is not the easy way to a degree, or a "way out" of college. As a distance learner you need to be aware of how you spend your time, and able to adjust your schedule as necessary. Some courses will be less involved than others, and some will require a lot more of your time. But its up to you to determine when to relax your schedule and when to tighten it up. Learn to work ahead of your schedule, and ways to stretch your time. Some examples include: bringing your text with you to appointments for waiting time, carrying a note pad with you for ideas and notes, buying a laptop for portability, and going to the library or coffee shop for quiet study time.
3. Connect with your instructor.
Most instructors share their email address with their students, and some include their phone numbers. This is because these are the only ways for you to directly contact them. Use it! If you are not sure of an assignment or concept, ask your instructor. They may give you some advice, tips, or outside links for further review. An open line of communication between you and your instructor is a sure way to guarantee distance learning success. The report you build may also prove beneficial in the future by means of letters of recommendation and tutoring.
4.Connect with your classmates.
Next to communicating with your instructor, communicating with your classmates is the most important aspect of distance learning. The environment created by distance learning programs is different than that of traditional education. It is a community of life-learners devoted to furthering their knowledge base, with diverse backgrounds and unique view-points. Most schools also provide email access for their students. Aside from private emails, you and your classmates will most likely be involved in several class discussions and projects. Read them...all of them if possible. You may have a minimum requirement to satisfy course requirements; however, submerging yourself in the discussions will surely give you a broader view of the topic, and may shed more light on topics commonly misunderstood.
5. Seek a tutor before its too late.
Once you fall behind in a distance learning environment, it is very difficult to catch up. The course work may be rigorous, you may have strict deadlines to adhere to, and their may be writing standards you must stick to. If this all becomes overwhelming, seeking the help of a tutor may be what you need. Many schools offer free tutoring on-site. When that isn't available or doesn't meet your needs there are for-profit and free tutoring sites available online. Some community colleges and libraries also offer tutoring services.
Other than these simple tips, regular study time, completing the designated readings, and doing the very best you can will prove to enhance your distance learning experience. Just remember that there will be no one there to push you and force you to do the work. That responsibility lies on you and you alone.