You’ve been considering taking the next step and earning your degree for a while. Whether that means completing your bachelor’s or earning a master’s or doctorate, you do know that whatever you decide, your personal and professional life demands the flexibility of an online degree.
But the last time you were a student—that was in a traditional, on-campus setting—and you’re not sure what it takes to be a successful online student.
Sound familiar? No matter what degree you’re pursuing, we have a few time management techniques that will help you succeed in the digital classroom.
- Set a schedule and stick to it. Self-discipline is the key to success in any learning environment, but especially online. Set a detailed daily schedule that includes work, family and other responsibilities, studying, completing online requirements and mealtimes. Be sure to create a schedule that will allow you a good night’s sleep, as this is extremely important for productivity. Wake up and go to sleep at the same time each day, which will reinforce your circadian rhythms and make it easier to stick to the schedule you set for yourself.
- Avoid multitasking. Multitasking online can turn into hours of black-hole internet searching or social media scrolling. Make a list of the readings and assignments that need to be done that day and tackle each, one at a time. Start with the item that will be the most difficult to complete and work your way to the easiest. This will keep you motivated as you complete each easier task on your list!
- Limit distractions. Set up a workspace dedicated just to your schoolwork. If possible, create a space away from other family members or roommates so you can focus solely on coursework. Set a timer and work uninterrupted for that amount of time. If you have children at home who might make uninterrupted work time difficult, there are a number of online resources being offered to children for free during this time. Check out this Today.com article listing a number of these options.
- Engage daily. One of the biggest fears for first-time online students is that you’ll miss out on rich in-class discussions. Interacting with your professor and classmates is a vital part of digital learning. Commit to engaging in class discussions in your online forum so you can hear the perspective of others or start a Zoom study group, as allowed.
- Set goals and reward yourself! Create specific goals (hourly, daily, and so on) and deadlines to complete them. If you complete them by the deadline, reward yourself with a 20-minute break. Try to make this time something that does not involve a screen so you can give your eyes time to rest!
Your Trevecca faculty are committed to your education, so if you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors or student success advisors for advice. If you dedicate yourself to this new way of learning and organizing your time, you’ll discover a rich, vibrant learning experience that helps equip you to reach your personal and professional goals.
Ready to take the next step?
Contact us today to speak with an enrollment counselor. We’re happy to talk with you about your options and how a Trevecca degree fits into your future.
