How to Foster Self-Disciplined Online Learning

Online learning can be great if students don’t have the time or mobility to drive to a university a few times a week. However, it can be harder to facilitate discipline for studying when a physical class is not there to remind students of the schedule that should be maintained.  Preparing and executing a plan for studying can help students succeed in their online program.

• Make a study schedule and stick to it. Hang this schedule somewhere in your home that you will always see it. If you need to, make multiple copies. If you are on the go frequently, use your phone to set up an alarm for reminders of when your next session should be. A good study schedule will aid you in learning material for class and help you from having to do last-minute cram sessions before an exam.
• Find a quiet place and make it your study area. If you have an office or an extra room in the home, use that area. Too much noise at home? Go to the local coffee shop or the library. Make sure this is a place that will keep you free from distractions.
• Establish the best time of day for studying. Some people are able to comprehend more in the morning; others find it easier to focus at night. It is important to know when you perform best so that you do not find yourself reading the same thing repeatedly.
• Use the Internet for studying only during sessions. If you have to go online, try not to keep your browser open. Look up what you need to and then close or minimize the page so that it is not in your face. This will keep you from checking your social networking page or online shopping when you should be studying.