E-learning, known and popularized for years through technological advancements, has become significantly more widespread since 2020, often replacing traditional learning in numerous instances.
E-learning is nothing more than a method of teaching using the Internet, allowing learning in the comfort of one’s own home without the need to physically attend classes. This approach can be used for traditional school lessons as well as various courses.
Many people consider e-learning to be a much more convenient, accessible, and comfortable form of education that allows for self-improvement practically anywhere and at any time. However, it requires proper preparation to effectively absorb knowledge. Do you want to learn some tips for e-learning? Read on!
Prepare Your Environment
To effectively study at home, it’s essential to create the right conditions, such as finding a quiet, comfortable, well-lit place. Ideally, this space should be free from distractions like background noise from radios or TVs. A table in a peaceful corner of a room where other household members won’t be working or playing is a great choice.
Proper hardware and software are also necessary for effective learning. It’s challenging to participate in online classes without a computer or another device like a tablet or phone.
In addition to the screen, consider investing in good speakers (external ones) or headphones for comfortable listening to the instructor. Headphones, especially those with noise-canceling features, can be helpful when you can’t secure a quiet space at home.
During live classes led by a teacher, a microphone (or a device with a built-in microphone) may come in handy to actively participate in the lesson. However, if the e-learning sessions you attend are in the form of prerecorded videos, and you only respond in writing, a microphone is not necessary.
E-learning sessions typically take place through a special platform, but don’t forget to prepare an empty text document or a regular notebook in which you can jot down important notes, observations, or questions.
Learning is a mentally demanding process. Therefore, in addition to preparing a quiet and comfortable space and the right equipment, also prioritize your health. Have some drinks and snacks ready before your sessions.
Try to take short breaks every hour, look away from the monitor, and don’t forget to get some fresh air. If you can’t leave home for a 15-20-minute break, open the window from time to time to let in some fresh air.
Effective Learning Strategies
To learn effectively, create your own learning plan and schedule. Divide the material you need to learn into smaller portions and study for shorter but more frequent periods. This process is called Information Chunking and is an excellent strategy for learning and retaining material.
If possible, schedule your sessions during hours when you are well-rested and focused. We won’t suggest specific days or times since this is highly individual. Some people learn better in the evening, while others prefer studying at dawn.
Furthermore, remember that e-learning’s flexibility allows you to study anywhere and at any time. If it works for you, you can even study using an e-learning app while travelling on a train or bus.
If you’re using an e-learning platform with premade materials, remember that everything on it is for you. Often, course creators provide students with additional materials like videos, PDF files, links to websites, books, and more.
Use these resources to deepen and organize your knowledge. If you’re attending live classes with an instructor, take advantage of opportunities to participate in discussions, ask questions, and engage fully in the sessions. Do your best!
E-Learning Challenges
Many people fear e-learning due to procrastination. It’s true that e-learning requires self-discipline and motivation to study. Your motivation might come from a desire to acquire new skills that can lead to a better job and higher earnings. However, remember that you are primarily learning for yourself, and the conveniences offered by e-learning are meant to help you achieve your goals.
If your equipment is not cooperating, stay calm. Hardware is just hardware and can occasionally fail. If your computer freezes during an online test, the old “turn it off and on again” trick often solves the problem.
If you get logged out of a live session, it may be due to an unstable internet connection, which you should check. However, if you still encounter issues, especially with the platform itself, don’t hesitate to contact the platform’s helpline or tech support and report your problem.
Continuous Improvement
Remember that learning requires consistency and patience. If you really are keen to learn something and acquire a useful skill for years to come, gradually absorb knowledge and explore new topics. It’s also a good idea to periodically review and test your knowledge.
Many platforms offer quizzes and tests that you can take after completing a particular chapter or section. Even if they are optional and not required to complete the course, use them. However, if your chosen platform doesn’t offer this option, don’t worry. You can find plenty of exercises and tests online in various fields. Remember that you can test yourself independently.
If, despite your attempts and success in quizzes, you still doubt your knowledge, you can always test yourself “in the field.” If you’re learning a foreign language, trying to have a conversation with someone in that language through social media can be an excellent practice.
If you’re learning Photoshop or Python programming, try creating something on your own and ask someone knowledgeable for feedback. Constructive criticism is part of learning and development and can help you identify areas where you need improvement.
If you want to excel in a particular field and ensure that your learning doesn’t go to waste, keep updating your knowledge. With the rapid development of various industries today, it’s essential to stay up to date and continue learning, even if you’ve already completed courses in a specific field.
Utilizing Online Platforms
There are currently dozens, if not hundreds, of e-learning platforms available. How do you choose the right one? Well, start by focusing on what you want to learn and what type of course you’re looking for, as well as the training format that interests you. The scope of the material and the field of study can significantly influence your choice.
Occasionally the price might be the deciding factor, with one platform offering a cheaper course and another with a pricier offer but also a more comprehensive one.
Other times, the availability of live classes at inconvenient times or the availability of pre-made training materials may be the deciding factors. If you’re still having trouble deciding, you can ask for help from fellow internet users.
Joining forums and groups on social media can help you not only select an e-learning platform, but also provide significant support in the learning process. The ability to discuss various topics, check your knowledge, exchange materials, receive advice, and often receive motivational support can help you complete your desired course, and also gain valuable, in-depth knowledge in a new field.
Summary
In summary, e-learning is an excellent way to achieve an effective and satisfying education that offers almost unlimited opportunities for personal development. With the right preparation, including the proper equipment, a conducive learning environment, and self-motivation (often with the support of others), you can successfully achieve your goals and acquire many new valuable skills. However, don’t get discouraged after your initial, possibly unsuccessful attempts. The most important factors are determination, consistency, and a strong desire to learn!