Below are some learning strategies for online learners that I believe to be valuable when taking an online course.
1.) Create a good learning environment to complete online assignments and coursework. This is important as you are away from the traditional classroom setting, so you need to create a study spot of your own to mimic that same distraction free setting. Good environments can be your office, a desk at home, the local library, or even Starbucks. Anywhere that allows you to focus without distraction can be your study spot.
2.) Make sure to dedicate specific time for online classes. While online courses are great in that they are flexible and easier to work into your schedule, they do require time of their own. One should avoid multitasking when completing online assignment. Creating a planner for yourself or having specific days that you have blocked off for online courses ensures you do not put the coursework off. See post about Trello – the everything planner for an example of an effective online planner.
3.) Partake in active learning or active note taking when reading online material. Active learning includes being engaged and attentive to a lecture or video even though the material is online. Active note taking includes writing down important or key information from a reading or lecture. Make sure to write down notes in your own words to ensure you understand the material. Some efficient active note taking skills include using abbreviations, making an outline, or using the Cornell method. Video below explains how to use the Cornell method