Self-discipline at core of successful distance learning
10/19/2017
Classroom walls have disappeared; borders have dissolved. As the education industry goes increasingly online, students can study almost anything from almost anywhere.
Despite the wealth of opportunity and unparalleled flexibility, distance learning isn’t for everyone. The most common pitfall, says Rahul Choudaha, executive vice-president of global engagement and research for the online search platform StudyPortals, is also a very basic one — incompletion.
“The majority of the students in these programs are adult learners; there’s a lot more going on in their lives,” Choudaha says. “It could be a function of work, commute, family — all those things can disrupt, despite the good intentions of individuals.”
If prospective students know they struggle with deadlines, procrastination or effective time management, online learning may not be their best environment. Ultimately, Choudaha says, “successful online learning rests on a high degree of self-discipline.”
Heidi Erisman, executive director of Canadian Virtual University-Université virtuelle canadienne (CVU-UVC), says there are a variety of options for online learners whose lifestyle, or learning style, requires a specific solution.
Paced programs — typically masters and PhDs — have to be completed within a certain timeframe, while self-directed learning — more frequently bachelors programs — offers greater flexibility with deadlines for earning the degree. Blended programs are also popular, she says, which include some on-campus learning as part of the package. Diplomas and certificates are attainable online, as well.
The rest is up to you. “It is really important to structure time and set individual learning goals,” Erisman advises online students. “Plot your requirements in your calendar and set up timelines.”
Through StudyPortals’ sister site, DistanceLearningPortal, students can browse almost 10,000 English-language online courses from institutions in dozens of countries. These credentials may be recognized by post-secondary institutions or employers in Canada, or present a great option for a student who may want to relocate one day — to Australia or Europe, for example.
But distance learning doesn’t have to be far away; many of Canada’s traditional campus universities or colleges offer online options, and other Canadian educational institutions are fully online.
Check that the institution is accredited by Universities Canada, Erisman says. Research your desired career path and, if applicable, determine if a professional body recognizes the school and program you’re considering. Compare tuition, timelines and course load with your current obligations.
In short, for those going back to school, you have to start by doing your homework.
“Choosing an online program is a complex process of balancing cost, convenience, interests, admissions requirements and career outcomes,” Choudaha says. “Every educational program offers a different mix.”
And when in doubt, Erisman encourages prospective students to contact a program adviser (PA) at the institution.
“Ask for a program adviser — they are very responsive, and these are all standard positions at distance learning universities,” she says. “You can speak to a PA and say, ‘I’ve got six courses from this place, and four courses from another place,’ and they will assess your previous learning, discuss what you want to do, and help you choose a program.”
By Nina Dragicevic