Online courses are often praised for being practical and self-paced learning opportunities. During COVID-19 times, colleges have free certificate-worthy online classes available for anyone willing to learn something new. But it’s not that simple when college students are suddenly required to study online full-time when they’ve never done it before.
It sounds like an easy change, but learning in a different way can be challenging. Students have even publicly shared their mixed experiences with virtual learning. Until schools (safely) reopen and everyone returns to their classrooms, all students will have to grapple with online courses, regardless of the frustrations. Here’s how to guarantee that diploma or certification without most of the hassle.
Take Virtual Classes Seriously
That’s not an obvious one, and there’s a reason why it’s the first step. Studying at home may give any student a certain sense of diminished responsibility, which could result in poor academic performance. However, contrary to what some people believe, long-distance learning doesn’t corroborate a lack of organization.
For example, online classes are even available for hands-on medical professionals like paramedics. The ACLS online renewal (ACLS being Advanced Cardiac Life Support) gives these medical professionals a certificate after they’ve completed affordable courses based on the latest American Heart Association (AHA) materials. And there’s more: Aspiring computer technicians can sign up for a fully online computer support specialist program and even schedule a virtual tour before doing so.
Whether in-person or remotely, the results you’ll take from your classes are the same. The only difference is the instructors are on the other side of the screen.
The following tips go even more in-depth about how you can make the most of your learning experience.
Invest in a Good Internet Connection
Without a reliable connection, you’ll most likely lag behind other students. Especially if classes are live on video call platforms, your Wi-Fi signal is what will prevent you from missing important subjects. Not to mention, it’ll save you and other participants a lot of stress during a live presentation, for instance.
Regardless of how affordable your course is, you’re still paying for both the knowledge and the certificate you’ll earn. In the end, the return you’ll get for a better internet service is much bigger than the price you’ll pay for it.
Keep Your Course Material Accessible
Get used to the idea of downloading several documents, videos, and recordings. It might sound like a lot of work, but you need to keep your material organized and handy for revisions.
Instead of simply downloading the files you need, keep them all in one folder dedicated to your online course. Make sure to section your files and name them accordingly so you don’t have trouble finding them. This step is essential to keep you motivated and use your precious study time wisely.
Remember to De-Stress
Even though you’re at home, being constantly plugged-in could stress anyone out. Endless files, a confusing chat interface, a professor who doesn’t know how technology works…all of this could leave you begging for traditional classes.
Being stuck at home doesn’t give you a range of options to work with. Still, there are a few easy ways to keep your stress under control:
- Avoid spending a lot of uninterrupted time in front of the computer. Take consistent breaks, and try using the Pomodoro technique. It’s a well-known time management method that will help you stay focused and more productive.
- Keep a schedule of classes and exams. If your online course is self-paced, create a schedule taking your daily activities into account.
- If you feel overwhelmed before an important exam, try using natural anxiety supplements. Although more research needs to be done, some studies have found that CBD may help ease anxiety. You can take it in the form of full-spectrum organic CBD gummies that contain natural ingredients (organic cane sugar and gluten-free glucose syrup) and natural flavors. Just a reminder that pure CBD (which stands for “cannabidiol,” and is derived from the cannabis plant) won’t make you high (it doesn’t contain the psychoactive components found in cannabis).
Whether you’re doing it by choice or not, following the above steps can help you succeed in your online classes — no matter the career you’re pursuing.
