Top 3 Bad Habits of Distance Learners

By this point in the semester, students have developed and solidified a series of study habits. For distance learners, these habits center on where, when, and how the work is completed. The standardization of classroom settings, uncomfortable chairs, and specific hours is no longer a requirement for online students. This flexibility opens up a range of possibilities but it can also lead to the development of bad habits. As the semester closes, this term’s grades are in the books. It’s the perfect time, however, to consider your approach to learning as an online student. Tis the season to change those bad habits! Here are the three top troublesome habits for distance learners:

1. Fail to plan? Plan to fail. Most students start the semester with enthusiasm. They write due dates in their planners and print fresh copies of the syllabus to line the wall of their course binder. For too many though, this trend is short lived. Deadlines have a way of creeping up on students who don’t see their instructors in person. Remedy this by mapping due dates for the entire semester from the start. Add reminders in electronic devices to prompt you a few days and/or hours before the assignment is actually due.

2. Distractions! Distractions! Online students attempt amazing things while “studying”. Many students report a need to do more than one thing at once. While taking an online quiz, it’s not unusual for a student to be watching television, eating, spending time with friends, and responding to text messages. Unfortunately, our brain isn’t intended for such level of multi-tasking. You will do better in distance learning classes if you limit distractions.

3. No set study time. I truly admire the dedicate of many online students I’ve taught. Many work full-time jobs, parent, and go to school. The problem with today’s “do-it-all” attempts is the absence of set time for students to complete distance learning work-and actually do the learning. It is absolutely imperative for students to carve out specific times each week or each day to first learn and then study the material. Consider your schedule over break and determine how much time you have to truly succeed in the classes you teach.

In the season of change, I hope you’ll take a look at your own study style. Identify those bad habits and resolve a new student you in 2013.