As an adult, online education is akin to riding a bicycle for the first time: it feels a little wobbly at first, but there’s a rush of euphoria when you find your rhythm. It does not matter whether you want to pursue a career change like a Masters of School Counseling or wish to satisfy your intellectual curiosity—the digital classroom provides ample flexibility. However, like everything else, there are unique challenges that come with it. Here are some tips that I have learned along the way on how to make the shift rewarding and smooth.
Set Up An Appropriate Study Area
Your surroundings can heavily influence your concentration levels. A few years back, when I enrolled in an online course, I remember trying to study on the couch with the television on. Spoiler: I did not achieve my desired results. I kept getting distracted by the chores that needed to be done or my phone that was constantly buzzing.
This is why it is important to create a separate study area, even if it’s just a section of your kitchen table. Remove all unnecessary items from the area and place your laptop, a notebook, and even a motivational sticky note. Such a space progressively conditions your brain. Similar to how a child builds a routine, learning is also easier when associated with a specific area. If you share your living area with other people, it’s best to inform them when you’re in ‘class’ to avoid interruptions. In this scenario, good noise-cancelling headphones will also likely work wonders.
Master Your Time Like a Pro
Juggling work, family, and studies simultaneously is like juggling flaming torches. The moment I missed a deadline because I misjudged the time I needed to complete a research paper, I understood the struggle. In online learning, time management is your most powerful tool.
Consider trying out a time management app such as Controlio. Make sure to block out time specifically for studying and treat them as appointments that cannot be skipped. During my experiments, I discovered that early mornings worked for me—fresh and quiet. From my experiments, everyone should try to discover their sweet spot. Don’t forget to schedule breaks to recharge.
Make Sure That You Are Actively Engaging with the Coursework
If you are just passively watching lectures, online courses have the potential of turning into a lonely affair. Treating videos as Netflix episodes and zoning out was a mistake I made early on. The key to good retention is engagement. Engage in class discussions, pose questions, and interact with peers online. Many services offer chat rooms or study groups—take part in them! Once I started participating in the forums from my class, I not only understood the concepts better, but I also made a study buddy who helped me stay on track. If your course has live sessions, attend them. Think of it as participating in a hand-raising-only class. You’re immediately involved.
Take Advantage of Technology with Enthusiasm
Technology can be challenging if you’re not used to it. I recall the panic I felt trying to navigate my course platform’s submission portal. Instead of quitting, I watched a tutorial and marveled at how much easier it was than I expected.
Learn about the tools that come with your course, such as Zoom, Canvas, or Google Drive. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of help guides or support staff, as most platforms provide them. If you are facing a specific challenge, such as formatting a paper, YouTube has plenty of succinct how-to videos. Consider technology a challenge to overcome, not an obstacle.
Prioritize Self-Care
Burnout is real, especially when squeezing studies into an already busy life. For me, self-care was not late-night cramming; it was loosening the vise grip of my schedule. Self-care is not just optional—it’s essential.
Make sure to set realistic expectations and everyday goals, such as finishing a module. Go for a walk to get some fresh air. Eating, sleeping, and healthy snacks are essential for cognitive function. If you need a mental or emotional break, don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend or course advisor. Many programs, like those for school counseling, stress practicing what you learn, so make sure to share.
Conclusion: Your Learning Experience Starts Today
Embracing adult online education is a leap of faith, and while it is perfectly acceptable to miss your targets, it is important to understand where to take aim first. Ensure you plan for studying, set a reasonable timetable, actively engage, leverage technology, and, most importantly, take care of yourself. My story shows how, through setting structure and working through chaos. Achieving perfection with online learning is not the goal, but consistency is key. Take the plunge, explore, and, most importantly, have fun. Your future self will be grateful.