Fox Business News January 4, 2013
Fox Business reporter Emily Driscoll turns to Get Educated founder, Vicky Phillips, and a panel of other online learning experts, for advice to help students select and succeed at online courses. The article summarizes study strategies from insiders at the University of North Carolina online MBA program and Post University Online. According to Driscoll, before signing up for any online program, here’s some of the top items students should consider if they want take full advantage of today's virtual classrooms.
1. Know Your Learning Preferences
Online instruction may appeal to a range of learning styles, but it’s important for students to really think about their learning needs and commitment level regarding virtual classroom environments. Some students may struggle with a lack of structure and routine that a tangible campus experience provides, says Vicky Phillips, founder of Get Educated.
“If an online course allows a student to log on anytime to read or comment on assignments, as most do, this openness quickly turns into an invitation to procrastinate—very few people are natural self-learners,” she says.
2. Designate a Work/Study Space
Experts recommend students set up a designated space to work and allow them to fully focus, whether at home or the local library. “If you are studying from home, on your laptop, in the living room, you won't look like you are studying and everyone, from the dog to your toddler or baby sister, will be tempted to distract you,” says Phillips. “Assign a set time and place where you will study each week and make that place a distraction-free zone.”
The article also advises students to learn time management, seek support, and scout out online programs where faculty are responsive and engaged before they enroll. Read the full article. |
