{"id":23843,"date":"2020-10-23T10:11:55","date_gmt":"2020-10-23T09:11:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stonebridge-blog.positive-dedicated.net\/?p=23843"},"modified":"2020-11-27T10:00:58","modified_gmt":"2020-11-27T10:00:58","slug":"preparing-for-your-distance-learning-course","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/distance-learning\/preparing-for-your-distance-learning-course\/","title":{"rendered":"Preparing for your Distance Learning Course"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Distance learning offers the same qualifications available through bricks and mortar colleges. Whether that\u2019s retaking your GCSEs or learning a new hobby, it\u2019s possible to do so through distance learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Anyone with conflicting schedules can get back into education despite not attending any classes. No matter what your circumstances are you\u2019re able to work towards your goals from the comfort of your own home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But with the freedom online learning provides also comes responsibility. Online learning is a more independent approach which means you\u2019re in control of what you do or don\u2019t do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There won\u2019t be a teacher planning your lessons or setting extra reading before your next class. Or even making sure you do your homework. You\u2019ll have to be your own teacher, which can be challenging. But doesn\u2019t have to be if you know what to expect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By being prepared for your online course beforehand it will ensure you\u2019ll be able to enjoy your learning experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Setting up your workspace for Distance Learning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Online learning enables you to study from pretty much anywhere if you have your laptop and a stable internet connection. Whether it\u2019s a local coffee shop, the public library or your kitchen, you\u2019re able to log in and start learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, just because you can study from anywhere doesn\u2019t mean you should. For example, we advise you not to study in your bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is because we associate our bed with sleep which will make it harder to concentrate on your studies. Alternatively, you might start to associate it with studying which will disrupt your sleep. Either way, it\u2019s not a good mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead, it\u2019s best to find somewhere you can sit comfortably in front of a surface large enough to lay out everything you need. Which leads on to the next point: putting away anything you don\u2019t need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That means making sure your work surface is clutter and distraction-free. This will help you stay on task as you won\u2019t be tempted to check your phone or tidy up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Only keep essential items nearby such as your laptop, notebook, water bottle and anything else essential to your studies. Hint \u2013 your phone isn\u2019t one of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Planning in Advance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Online learning gives you the flexibility to study whenever suits you, but you shouldn\u2019t leave it until the last minute. Give your distance learning journey structure by planning out your study sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This will give a realistic overview of how long it\u2019s going to take to work through all the modules. And help you feel better prepared for any oncoming exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most successful online students plan in advance, factoring in work, family time and other commitments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether that\u2019s a holiday or your birthday, it\u2019s sensible to admit you won\u2019t be studying during these events. And that\u2019s fine as long as you\u2019ve made room in your schedule somewhere else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019ve allocated time for your studies you\u2019ll be more likely to buckle down and do the work. It\u2019s far less likely you\u2019ll commit to studying if you decide on the spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Planning allows you to separate your learning into manageable chunks. So if you struggle with studying for long hours, this is a good way to stop you feeling overwhelmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Staying Motivated with Distance Learning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Distance education is a more independent learning approach. This allows people the opportunity to get back into education without affecting your other commitments. But requires you to be a self-motivated individual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And depending on how much time you have spare means you can be studying for up to two years. Even the most disciplined online students may occasionally find themselves veering off track.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re finding it challenging to stay motivated then it\u2019s important to remind yourself why you\u2019re studying. Spend some time reflecting on your goals and aspirations, where you\u2019ve started and how far you\u2019ve come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seeing all the progress you\u2019ve made will encourage you to keep going. Praise yourself for doing well and allow yourself time off if you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another way to stay motivated is to set short-term goals that you can achieve within a study session. This will help keep you focused and build your confidence as you tick off your to-do list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also good practice to give yourself breaks throughout your study session. This will help your brain digest information and give you some time to refresh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Study techniques<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Having a range of different techniques in your arsenal can help improve your retention of knowledge. Which in turn means you\u2019ll be able to demonstrate your know-how better in exams and\/or assessments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It also means you\u2019ll be more engaged with your studies and make the experience more enjoyable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can do this by incorporating the following into your sessions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n