5 tips for success in online learning
AU educational counsellor offers advice to help students succeed
What sets Athabasca University (AU) apart is the unparalleled flexibility that we offer our students.
You can pursue your educational goals online, on your own time, right from where you are. You aren’t required to travel to a traditional campus and sit in a conventional classroom.
AU is designed to adapt to your life, not the other way around. We provide a quality, accredited education whenever and wherever it works for you. We truly are a university like no other.
While AU offers the freedom to learn at your own pace, it’s important to note that it’s not easy. Being in a fully online environment has challenges. You’re in charge of your educational journey, which can be overwhelming if you’re new to online learning. But don’t worry! We are here to help.
Here are some tips and resources to support your success as you begin your educational journey.
1. Understand how online learning works
Learning online is much different than attending a traditional university. Unlike in-person learning, AU online courses do not involve attending class.
Courses are self-directed, which means you work your way through the course at your own pace—there is no professor or instructor delivering the course.
Courses are self-directed, which means you work your way through the course at your own pace—there is no professor or instructor delivering the course.
This does not mean you are all on your own! Tutors and academic experts are assigned for every course and are available to help you with assignments or questions that may come up as you work through the course materials.
Skills such as time management, scheduling, and self-direction help achieve success with online learning.
2. Identify and set a learning goal
When it comes to online learning, staying motivated is the key to success. By setting a learning goal, you help yourself stay motivated to achieve it. Your learning goal could be career development, personal development, skill development, or something entirely unique to you.
Connecting to your goal is your foundation and the driving force in helping you achieve it. Need help defining your goal? Use these free self-assessment tools.
3. Set up your technology and review your course and program requirements
You will need a computer to navigate AU services and complete your coursework. While most courses will require you to have access to a web browser, email, and the software capability to submit assignments, some courses may have more specific requirements.
Technology plays a big role in your online learning, and trying to get set up during coursework can be stressful. Save yourself some stress by preparing in advance.
Still thinking about which course or program is right for you? You can review program plans to help gain a better understanding of what courses are required for different programs. You can also compare programs if you are still deciding which one is right for you.
For each course you take, it’s important to read and understand the course syllabus before the start date to ensure that you can meet all the requirements.
4. Plan your study schedule and factor in some time for the unexpected!
Time management is a big factor in achieving online success. It is essential to create a study schedule to stay motivated and on track.
Studies show that writing down goals increases the likelihood of achieving them. Physically allocating time in your calendar to work on readings and assignments greatly enhances your chances of meeting deadlines.
Prepare by thinking about when you have time in your daily schedule to study, and how many hours you have available each day/week to study.
Assess your time availability and be realistic about how many courses you should take at one time. It’s best to start slow with one or two courses as you determine what works best for your lifestyle. On average, you should expect to dedicate 10 to 15 hours per week per course.
5. Take care of yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for support!
Even if you follow every time management technique you know, you risk burning out if you don’t take care of yourself first!
It is not selfish to take time out to recharge. Taking 30 minutes out of your day to do something that brings you joy can make a big difference in your mindset.
Our support service teams offer guidance, advice, and resources to empower you in your academic and personal growth.
You can also book an appointment with AU Counselling Services to speak with an academic counsellor to discuss education and career goals, study skills, time management, and setting yourself up for success.
Additional resources for online learning success
For more tips to help you become a successful online learner, check out these other resources.
