4 Tips for Learning Online

June 12, 2023 by Professional Studies Staff

According to a study conducted by the Centre for Extended Learning at the University of Waterloo, adult learners like online learning because it fits in with their work and family obligations. But adults are busy people, and fitting online learning into an already busy schedule requires strategy.

With nearly 20 years’ experience delivering online courses, the staff at Professional Studies at Queen’s University know a lot about supporting adult learners who take online courses. Here are their top four tips for getting the most out of online learning:

1. Think about the time online learning will save you

There’s no question that online learning involves a time commitment. But it can also save you time. By taking online courses you don’t have to think about

organizing and hiring a babysitter
getting dressed up, as you would for work
travelling to take a course
travelling in inclement weather
finding and paying for parking

How much time will you save by not having to do these things? Several hours? That’s your professional learning time. Instead of spending your time on transition activities, reclaim that time for learning.

2. Treat online learning as a part-time job

Set aside some time throughout the week to work on your course. Schedule “study” sessions in a calendar and show up to work on your online course as you would for a job. Communicate your study times to your family. Learning is an investment in your future. Don’t be afraid to create space for it.

Tip: One online instructor with a young family closed the office door and hung a hat on the door handle. Family members knew that “when mom had her hat on” there were no interruptions. Learners can find similar ways to communicate course work time to family members. If hanging a hat won’t work with your family, do your course work at your local public library, a coffee shop, or a friend’s place (their children are unlikely to need you).

3. Connect with your community

Adults are accustomed to having to figure things out on their own. But you don’t have to figure it out on your own while learning something new. Online courses are set up to encourage community so you can work through learning challenges with your course mates.

If you get stuck, don’t be shy about reaching out to your instructor or tutor. Don’t wait—let your instructor know what your challenges are, right away. They will be happy to help you, or they will direct you to someone who can. The best learning happens in community. Commit to connecting with yours.

4. Fit your learning into the cracks

Most courses will require you to do some reading. Do your reading in the cracks. Many online courses are mobile-friendly, so you can read on your phone. Do you have 10 minutes? Read while waiting at the optometrist’s office, in line at the grocery store, or during your lunch hour. Those scraps of time add up. Completing your reading in small bursts throughout the week will give you more time to process and reflect on what you’ve read. The advantage of this approach: when it’s time to complete your assignments, you’ve already had ample time to digest the new concepts introduced in your readings.

If you’re interested in taking online courses, Queen’s University Professional Studies offers a wide range of options. With nearly 20 years of experience delivering online courses, Queen’s Professional Studies has the expertise and support to help you succeed in your professional learning goals. You can choose from a variety of courses and programs, from editing and writing to education and technological tools. Explore the online course options today and take the first step toward achieving your professional goals.