Tips for Overcoming Procrastination in Online Learning
For many people, the primary advantage of online degree courses is the flexibility
of being able to take classes any time and from any location where Internet access
is available. Many people think that online courses are an easy way to earn a degree.
It’s important to remember, however, that scheduling flexibility doesn’t mean that
distance learning courses require any less time or effort than face-to-face classes.
Create a Class "Schedule"
Even though you can choose when to complete your distance learning courses, it is
in your best interest to come up with your own class schedule, and make yourself
stick to it. If you only have time to study during your lunch breaks, make an appointment
with yourself to do so. Put your study time on your calendar, no matter what time
of the day or night you have available, and treat it like an appointment with an
important client.
Only you can prevent failure
Success in online degree programs requires effort, discipline, and self-motivation.
When you don’t have to complete coursework at predetermined times, it can be easy
to rationalize putting off doing things that you have to do to be successful in
your online degree courses. For many people, the flexibility of the online classes
leads to procrastination, which can in turn lead to failure.
Don't let an opportunity go to waste
So just because you qualified for that scholarship or Federal Supplemental Education
Opportunity Grant, don’t fall into the trap of procrastination just because you
aren’t going to be marked absent if you don’t show up for a class at a predetermined
time. The decision to pursue a degree program, online of otherwise, is an important
investment in your future. Don’t let the trap of procrastination keep you from achieving
your goals.