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The first thing you need to realize is that online learning is not an easier way to learn, but rather a more convenient one. However, distance learning requires time management skills, self-discipline, willpower, and strong motivation, as it may be challenging for online students to successfully complete their courses. We want you get to most out of your online learning experience. So, we have put together a list of ‘Tips & Suggestions’ for online learners that will help to succeed while studying.

Plan ahead and plan well.

Stay organized. Pay close attention to the due dates of the assignments. All assignment due dates should be in your calendar, online or paper folders should be created for each week. Do not put off quizzes or assignments till the last minute. Check your e-mail regularly.

Participation is important.

Online learning doesn’t necessarily mean learning in isolation, so be confident in making contributions. If you have a question, or need clarification on a difficult concept – ask. Be clear and concise in your communication. Participate actively in online discussions and group activities, suggest study tricks, offer your input on the course and engage in new ideas.

Find the right study environment.

Study space has a direct impact on study effectiveness. You need a place to study that’s quiet for a time that’s set aside where you can focus on your work without distractions. A quiet area with good lighting, comfortable seating, and enough space to spread out your books and papers can make all the difference in how productive you are. Turn off a cellphone and keep Internet surfing to a minimum (unless it’s for research) to keep yourself focused and ready to learn.

Confirm technical requirements.

Record your courses.

Make sure that your computer will work with all the online tools, and that you know how to navigate them so that you don’t have to spend time during the webinar or course trying to figure out the technology.

• Ensure reliable Internet access. If your Internet connection has a tendency to crash your browser or drop altogether, you’ll need to diagnose the source of a problem or/and use cable instead of WiFi to eliminate potential connectivity problems.
• Meet the browser requirements. In order to access course materials and assignments, you must have the right browser and plugins.
• Make sure your software like Skype, GoToMeeting, or Hangouts is updated to the latest version.
  Eliminate background noise and get better sound quality by using a headset. Use a light background preferably white as much as possible.
• Prevent your camera from moving by ensuring it has a steady base. Check that your head and torso are at the center of the camera’s frame. Prepare any files you want to share prior to the study period.

Review, revise, repeat.

Regular revisions of the things you have already studied will not only improve your memory, but they will also help you better understand what you are learning. Create your own flash cards for your key notes and quiz yourself on the key concepts of the online course. Important lessons are also worth recording for future reference. Furthermore, consider having one or more study partners; working in groups will offer you alternative views of difficult concepts and help in completing your online assignments more quickly by reviewing what you have learned. Share your study notes and records with your virtual classmates and support each other throughout the online learning process.