In truth, most of us are already online students before we even sign up and enroll in an educational program. We are students of the worldwide web that we browse each day asking questions and providing solutions. The difference is the type of information that we are consuming and not being tested on whether or not we retain it. The sense of focus too is also different in that when you study online you are more purposeful in how you manage and use the information. For this reason, online students are the most intentful users of the internet.
A few years ago I would have never given being an online student a second thought. Well, 2017 came around and it was the best option available. It is a wonderful way to save time but requires much focus and dedication. The typical brick and mortar school offers you some level of socialization that simply cannot be achieved by online education. You get to see your peers experience the same things that you have to deal with and there is some comfort in that. At times it is a trade off depending on your lifestyle.
Dealing with Being an Online Student
As an online student you will be tested. It takes a high level of commitment and focus to not be distracted by a random advertisement or to check your social media when doing research. If you keep in mind the time crunch that you will be on time to perfect your research paper, you usually think twice about social media. Not only that but your vision will also be tested. Before studying only I had no issues with my vision. Now, I am nearsighted and wear prescription glasses. So yes, you will be tested mentally and physically. One tip is to look away from your computer screen at times. Do not sit steering at the screen for an hour long. Learn the technology. Understand how your student portal works. Participate in the orientation. It will make studying online much easier and practical for you.
For some reason you seem to have more research papers, group and portfolio assignments each week. Well, I found this to be true, having previously studied Spanish online in 2013 then my MBA online in 2017. Each week I had a minimum of 2 assignments due per course and a maximum of 4. Be prepared for that. Since you are not in a classroom for hours on end, the assignments and research make up for that. The key is organization and time management. When you have group assignments, expect that everyone might have a different approach and you will need to deliberate to decide which option will work out best for the good of the group, not for you who you like or dislike or think is not equipped enough to have a say.
Of course once you have mastered time management and your sense of focus, you will need to learn how to handle interacting with your global classroom. Your peers will be people from all over the world with various cultures and mindsets. Always ensure that you practice mindfulness and relax, it is all a learning experience. Having various backgrounds also means our values might be different from others and this too will be highlighted in the way we communicate with each other and the way we conduct peer assessments/reviews. Take nothing too personal but also keep in mind that you can speak with your instructor or academic advisor. This will help you to avoid the grad school burnout.
You will come across experts in various fields, people with limited English or language proficiency and those with unique traits. All with the same common goal, and that is to learn in order to advance themselves. Build on that.
Thanks for reading. Check out my previous blog about studying for an MBA online. Also feel free to check out my books.
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My pleasure! Thank you.
Thank you Krissey for sharing your rich experience and inspirational insights with us!