Guest Author - Sanita Salter
One of the main things to know when getting started with distance learning (aka online education and training) is to have a clear goal in mind. Goal setting in baby steps is vital to just getting your feet wet with distance learning. If it will be your first attempt at a college degree, if you are attempting some form of career training, if you are working and want a graduate or doctoral level degree, and if you are going to high school online the tools for success are going to depend on your goals for completion.
Ask yourself why you chose online instead of on campus. Convenience is usually the number one reason. Many individuals have multiple responsibilities to juggle and want the ease of learning and advancing their educational goals when real life permits. Procrastination is usually a hindrance so be sure when you commit yourself that you are ready and willing to commit the time prescribed and necessary to complete and excel in your program of choice.
Another option in which I became aware of while searching for my particular program was online education for K-12 being adopted and approved by states. Its called Virtual school these days. Options I considered when looking into the possibility of homeschooling my youngest child was a virtual school “state” approved. It was amazing however, I chose not to home school because of my commitment to an already intense online graduate school program.
When you are initially beginning, the name of the game will be to manage your time effectively, figure out your learning style, organize your work area (my work space is officially called the “Bat Cave”), and pick a program that will work with your lifestyle. Additionally, if you have not been in school for a while you will have to get into a groove of things, or find your “rhythm” as they say.
Final words on being new to distance learning are time management is key. I am still working on this part because while you are managing your time life happens. Be sure to speak to your enrollment advisor about policies on late work if say a family emergency occurs and you are going to be unable to complete an assignment on time. The best thing I did was to make a list of what I needed in advance of sending in my admissions application packet.
