How to Be a Successful Online Student: 15 Tips for Achieving Your Education Goals

Pursuing an online degree or taking some of your college courses remotely can provide incredible flexibility and convenience. However being a successful online student requires discipline organization, and self-motivation. By following these 15 tips, you can set yourself up for success in your online classes.

Choose a Productive Learning Environment

One of the keys to succeeding as an online learner is setting up a dedicated learning space for yourself Choose a quiet area in your home that can be used exclusively for doing your coursework Make sure it has a sturdy desk or table, comfortable chair, and ample lighting. Minimize distractions in this space by removing TVs, games, toys, etc. Having a productive physical environment will help you get in the right headspace for learning and avoid procrastination.

Stay Motivated and Engaged

Without the set class schedule and in-person accountability of traditional classes, it’s easy for online students to procrastinate and disengage. Combat this tendency by finding ways to stay motivated:

• Set goals for what you want to accomplish in each study session or week. Break bigger tasks down into manageable chunks.

• Reward yourself for hitting milestones – with a special treat, short break, or fun outing.

• Connect with other online students for tips, moral support, and accountability.

• Simulate the classroom experience by using digital tools like live chats, message boards, video calls, etc. Interact often.

Maintain a Positive Mindset

Online learning comes with unique challenges. When frustrations arise, keep your mindset positive by:

• Remembering why you enrolled and how online classes allow you to reach your goals

• Reframing struggles as temporary setbacks or learning experiences, not failures

• Practicing positive self-talk and giving yourself credit for efforts made

• Reaching out for help from your instructor or classmates when needed

Don’t Skip “Class”: Stay Caught Up

Unlike live lectures, online course materials can be accessed anytime. But don’t use this flexibility as an excuse to fall behind. Treat each day like you have a class session. Skim materials in advance and thoroughly review all assigned readings, videos, etc. Stick to assignment due dates. If you do get behind, make a plan to catch up.

Connect with Your Instructor

In online platforms, it’s essential to connect with your instructor by:

• Participating frequently in discussions, chats, etc. This shows you’re engaged.

• Emailing with questions or concerns about the materials or assignments

• Requesting help if you’re struggling with a concept or time management

• Sharing positive feedback when you find aspects of the course helpful

Set Goals and Deadlines for Yourself

Without set class times, it’s crucial for online learners to impose structure. Break each week down into manageable chunks:

• On Sunday, review your upcoming modules, assignments, and deadlines.

• Each day, set specific goals for what topics or tasks you’ll cover in that day’s “class session”.

• Check in on your progress at least once a day, preferably midday and evening.

• Leave yourself buffer days before assignments are due to allow for correction or unexpected delays.

Limit Time on Social Media

It’s tempting to multi-task when learning remotely, but activities like social media quickly derail your productivity. Set limits by:

• Silencing phone notifications during study sessions

• Using website blockers to restrict access to distracting sites

• Rewarding yourself with short social media breaks periodically – say 10 minutes for every 45 minutes of work

Develop Strong Time Management Skills

Succeeding with online classes requires excellent time management skills:

• Use planners or scheduling apps to map out all assignments and deadlines from your syllabi.

• Block your daily study sessions on your calendar, just like a scheduled class. Protect this time.

• Minimize errands and obligations outside of class to free up more time for coursework.

• When planning your week, be realistic about what you can accomplish. Don’t overcommit.

Eliminate Household Distractions

Studying from home comes with potential distractions – kids, pets, chores, etc. To minimize disruptions:

• Use noise-cancelling headphones to block out sounds.

• Hang a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your study space during class times.

• Have childcare or pet care plans set up for your designated study hours.

• Tackle chores and errands outside of study sessions or during planned breaks.

Make Use of Instructor Office Hours

Instructor office hours allow you to get one-on-one help with concepts, assignments, deadlines, or anything else. Take advantage of this resource by:

• Signing up for a office hours slot to introduce yourself early in the term

• Joining office hours periodically to touch base or ask follow-up questions

• Attending office hours if you miss a class or start to struggle with materials

• Visiting office hours in advance of exams or big projects for focused help

Take Thorough Notes to Retain Info

It’s easy to feel disengaged watching an online lecture. Stay focused and retain key concepts by taking detailed notes, just as you would in person:

• Pause frequently to summarize main ideas and jot down key terms.

• Use headings, bullet points, and highlights to organize notes.

• Review and add to notes soon after lectures while info is still fresh.

• Keep notes organized so they’re easy to find and study from.

Seek Out Study Groups and Partners

Connecting with peers is vital for online students. Seek out study buddies and groups by:

• Forming relationships with engaged classmates you interact with online

• Participating in school-run online study groups or discussion forums

• Joining study groups on sites like Quizlet, Facebook, GroupMe, WhatsApp, etc.

• Scheduling video chat study sessions with peers to prepare for exams or work on projects

Leverage School Resources

To succeed in online classes, take advantage of all academic resources offered by your school like:

• Online tutoring services for individualized help

• Academic coaches to assist with study strategies and time management

• Counseling/advising to discuss any difficulties you’re facing

• Library services for accessing research materials, databases, etc. remotely

Practice Good “e-Etiquette” for Online Classrooms

In online classes, communication norms differ from an in-person setting. Observe proper “e-etiquette” by:

• Using clear subject lines and thoughtful email messages to instructors.

• Writing professional, grammatically correct discussion posts.

• Respecting diverse viewpoints and giving constructive feedback to peers.

• Avoiding sarcasm or language that could come off as rude or disrespectful.

Experiment with Different Learning Methods

Discover which study techniques work best for you as an online learner. Try:

• Reading course notes or transcripts aloud when reviewing materials

• Drawing visuals, concept maps, or diagrams to make lessons more visual

• Watching pre-recorded lectures at faster speeds to maximize your time

• Quizzing yourself using online flashcard tools or self-made study tests

• Teaching concepts to a friend or family member to reinforce your knowledge

By implementing some of these tips, you can eliminate common pitfalls and pave the way for a successful, rewarding online education experience! With discipline and determination, you’ve got this.