In this, the second article in a series by Dr Eileen C. Winter, she provides advice to online learners about time management.
Time management is critical to the success of online learning because most activities can be completed asynchronously. That means you do not have to be online at the same time as your instructor or other students. The advantage of “anytime, anywhere” learning, however, can be cancelled out through procrastination! Make sure that you log on regularly, review the postings in the Discussion Forums and post your own comments and responses.
Studying
With traditional courses, it is very easy to chat with other students, get into student study groups and work together; in the online environment, this kind of collaboration is more difficult. You can contact classmates to form a group and you can also view all discussions, questions, and communications online at any time. This is especially useful when doing your assignment.
Here are some quick, simple tips to help you manage your time and your work-
1) Organize your materials.
Develop a system that works for you. Keeping track of your printed work, readings and notes will save you time when papers are due.
2) Focus on reading.
Much of the work in an online course involves reading. Making notes and highlighting can help you to pick out the most important aspects of the reading.
3) Explore note-taking systems.
Devise a note taking process that is efficient for you.
4) Set goals.
Goals are important when it comes to managing your time. Keep the goals positive, realistic and write them down! Plan ahead and lower your stress levels.
5) Hone writing skills.
You will be writing academic papers during the programme so writing skills do matter.
Dr Eileen C. Winter,
Eileen works as Director of Academic Programs at the Institute of Child Education and Psychology (ICEP) Europe, and is an internationally published author and speaker in the field of education.