How To Succeed in Online Learning
How To Succeed in Online Learning
The only way that we can live, is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that
we can change is if we learn.
The 21st century has brought about a massive change in the world of education. Gone are those days when
teaching was limited only within the confines of a classroom. The internet has brought about a paradigm shift in
the fundamental way in which learning is done. It has taken learning beyond the walls of the schools and
universities and into the very tips of our fingers.
In actuality, this is not entirely new. Let's take a peak on the history of online learning. It emerged in 1982 when
the Western Behavioral Sciences Institute in La Jolla, California employed computer conferencing to deliver a
distance education program to business executives. Then, in 1989 the University of Phoenix began offering
education programs through the internet. In 1993, with the debut of the first Internet web browser, created by
the University of Illinois, online learning began to flourish. Then in 1998, the first fully online programs were
founded by New York University.
As you can see, based on history, the latest technologies are continouosly evolving teaching delivery &learning
acquisition. Nowadays, all academic institutions offer them - from primary schools to higher education. During
this COVID-19 pandemic, it has become a norm rather than just an alternative. Undeniably, it became the
beacon of survival for the educational systems around the world, at these extraordinary times.
Moving forward, the advantages of online learning are relatively obvious like TIME FLEXIBILITY (studyanytime or
at your own pace), ACCESSIBILITY (study anywhere in the world as long as you have internet) and
AFFORDABILITY (study for less or even for free). However, we can't deny that many arestillstruggling with this.
So now, we have just identified the most common challenges of this modern method. What else can we
do to overcome these? Or the betterquestion is - How can we succeed in our online learning?
Here are 5 simple tips which I'm sure could be beneficial to anyone enrolled or plans to enroll in e-learning.
1. FAMILIARIZE
Make it a point to attend the program orientation or watch the video tutorials at the beginning of the course. Re-
peat if needed and ask for clarifications. Aside from that, orient yourself further by exploring the different sec-
tions of the learning management system and varied features of the recommended video conferencing app, if
applicable.
2. EXPRESS
Declare your enthusiasm in learning, be it in your social media, official group chats or in the school digital com-
munity. Voice out your ideas and be inspired with other peoples' journey as well
3. CONNECT
Most online courses are built around the concept of collaboration, with instructors actively encouraging stu-
dents to work together to complete assignments and discuss lessons. Build relationships with others by intro-
ducing yourself and engaging in online discussions. Your peers can be a valuable resource when preparing for
exams or asking for feedback on assignments. Chances are, they will appreciate it just as much as you will.
4. INVOLVE
Don't be a passive learner. Be proactive by participating in class discussions, sharing ideas or commenting on
the online forum. This will help you better understand course materials and engage with fellow classmates. It
will foster as well the sense of belonging and lessen the feeling of isolation.
5. FOCUS
Treat your online classes the same way you would a face-to-face class. You must “show up” if you’re going to
get the real value out of your class so always hold yourself accountable.
The flexibility to create your own schedule is often the biggest appeal of taking online classes. But that freedom
can also be detrimental if you do not have solid time management skills. So have discipline, eliminate distrac-
tions, keep track of your progress, have a specific study habit and stick to it.
In conclusion, online learning has truly revolutionized education throughout the years. It empowered us to earn
that certificate, diploma or degree that we need for our professional goals & lifelong dreams - at the convenience
of our fingertips, in the comforts of our own homes & even at our own time.
Though they come with their own unique challenges, identifying the various factors involved, preparing for them,
following these simple tips and having the right attitude can help us succeed in online learning, even in the
most chaotic of times. And, if all else fails, always remember why you started.
Best of luck everyone! Happy learning as always & thank you for listening!