Breaking free of the constraints of a physical classroom can be a wonderful thing, but the freedom and flexibility that online study brings also has a downside: it’s harder to stay motivated. Without a campus to attend and tutors to interact with in the flesh, some students find themselves falling behind with their studies.
According to Patricia Dodd, a teacher and assessor for Chisholm Online, the two keys to staying motivated are to apply ‘real life’ principles to your online world and to take advantage of technology. These are her seven top tips.
1. Set yourself regular study time
Re-create the structure of normal on-campus study by scheduling study sessions in advance – at times that suit you, of course. “Set aside at least 20 minutes each day to focus solely on your studies,” Patricia advises. If you can study at the same time each day, even better. “Why not set up an alert on your phone or tablet to remind you of your recurring study appointment?” Patricia suggests.
2. Regularly check in with your teacher
Interacting and seeking advice from teachers is a key motivator for students, regardless of how they study, says Patricia. “Even if you don’t have specific questions, it’s best to touch base with a message or email every couple of weeks,” she says. “I always advise my students, ‘When in doubt, check it out.’”
3. Take advantage of web-based learning
One great benefit of online study is that you can take your learning with you on the go. “If you use public transport, make the most of that time by reading the learning content or discussion forums while on the bus or train,” Patricia says. “Or you can plug in and listen to the latest webinar provided by your tutor that can help with your assessments.” Studying during what might normally be ‘dead time’ on public transport can free you up at home, which will help you feel motivated, Patricia says.
4. Talk to your colleagues at work
If your study is related to your current job, your colleagues may be able to help you with professional advice. “Chatting to your workplace colleagues or managers about your course and assessments can help you apply your knowledge in a practical environment,” says Patricia. “Often they can guide you or provide useful study resources or assignment tips that you may not have thought of on your own.”
5. Talk to family and friends about your study
Receiving encouragement from your loved ones can help you remain motivated, Patricia says. It also holds you accountable. “Speaking to family and friends is particularly useful if you aren’t the type to connect with your fellow student peers online,” she adds.
6. Map out your terms or study periods in advance
Patricia says some online students become discouraged when work seems to pile up without warning, but this can be avoided by figuring out when you’ll complete each assessment. “Online students can take it for granted that they have ‘all the time’ to complete their assessments and forget about the due dates for each one,” she says. “It helps if they set an alert on their devices plus have a large calendar on their study desk or workspace to show the study deadlines clearly.”
7. Plan, plan, plan
With great freedom comes great responsibility. If you’re studying online, it’s up to you – not your teachers or classmates – to maintain momentum. Patricia says the best way to do that is to be super-organised. “Planning and preparation is key to successful completion of study, especially online,” she says. “I often tell my students: ‘If you fail to plan, then plan to fail.’”
This article was first published in November 2019 and has been updated.
