Distance Learners Must Organize To Learn Effectively
I had to grin recently while researching an article about online learning. Like many people who write articles, I sometimes generate new ideas by reading PLR (Private Label Rights) articles Ive either collected or paid for over the years. I chuckled audibly when one of these articles announced the impending demise of the "real" brick-and-mortar university in no uncertain, but nevertheless almost ludicrous terms. Imagine, ventured the incredulous author, that some people actually still play solitaire with a real deck of cards!
Although factors such as convenience and flexibility have contributed to the fast-growing popularity of distance learning, the fact of the matter is that earning an online degree isnt necessarily easy. In order to succeed, online learners need better than average command of basic computer skills. While copy-and-paste, familiarity with a word processor and knowing how to access the Internet are easily acquired abilities, other tools in the skill set arent so simple to acquire.
Here's a look at three key points to consider:
1. Discipline is at the top of everyone's list. Because online learning is essentially an isolated undertaking, some students aren't able to focus on their work without the benefit of one-on-one interaction with professors and their fellow students. A high percentage of online learners let assignments slide because there isn't a deadline or pressure from an instructor to complete an assignment on time. This is especially applicable to working adults or learn-at-home moms who need to integrate online learning with the pressures of a job or the needs of their children.
2. Discipline alone isnt enough. Organizational skills are also important because online learners typically work full-time or care for a family at the same time theyre pursuing a university degree. Theres no time for online learners to pull an all-nighter before a paper is due or before final exams. As a result, online learners have to have the ability to organize their other activities in order to have enough time for projects and class preparation.
3. Even those who can muster the self-discipline and organizational skills to master the online learning environment may still fall short when it comes to the learning style that best matches the distance learning environment. Distance learning makes heavy use of visual and auditory materials, either in the form of printed material or audio and video-based instruction. If you need a hands-on approach to learn, that is, by examining or even building something, chances are you may have difficulty with online learning.
You can find out more about your online learning skills by taking one of several online tests that help nail down your personal learning style. Try searching Google, MSN or Yahoo for "learning styles" or "online learning styles" and you should find several different tests. Theyre all simple to complete and they'll give you a much better idea of how well qualified you may be for online learning. Accredited online universities also have counsellors and advisors to help you assess your prospects of successfully earning an online degree.
Matt Paolini works from home as a distance learner. Visit MBA University of Phoneix or MBA University of Pheonix for free distance learning info.
