The World Really IS Your Classroom!

Another reason why I have really enjoyed studying online is how I am able to take my work ANYWHERE! This feature is especially convenient during summer sessions as I can do my work on a dock, at the beach, in the park, or on the side of a cliff if I want to. I encourage you to reinvent your study and homework locations, especially with good weather!

One of my favorite moments while attending online courses was during the fall session when I was enrolled in Adult Developmental Psychology and I was reading Tuesday with Morrie on my back porch with my coffee, my favorite tree, the birds, and tears streaming down my face. Needless to say this environment was much nice than the average classroom and it allowed me to really connect to the subject matter; I know I would have held back on just how much the readings touched me if it were in a face-to-face discussion.

Also, I have learned in my current course, Cognitive Psychology, that studying and learning in different places helps with memory as it cuts down on environmental association of the new skills or facts being learned. Create your own classroom? Sounds great to me!

What Works for Me...and Maybe You!

As promised, I wanted to give a few pointers on what has worked for me for my online courses…

Mapping it Out:

- I have a binder for each session of courses I take that is organized with tabs for each course

-Every Sunday I look at the checklist for the week and write it down in my binder

-Being sure to write due dates (both day and time) for each assignment/post/etc.

Checking it Off:

-As I finish each task I check it off and move on to the next

Being in Communication:

-As an adult learner, things come up, especially as most of us are working fulltime

-I am sure to maintain communication with my professors if I foresee issues with due dates

-I do NOT recommend abusing policies, however, I have found that the professors at Lesley are understanding and want their students to be successful

Reading CAREFULLY:

-Because online learning relies so heavily on written instruction it is SO important to pay attention to details

-If you have questions, ask your professors

I know I have struggled with maintaining my time management for certain assignments due to my busy schedule; however, it is important to keep things in perspective. We are all doing the best we can and if you are enrolled in an online program it is clear that you are serious about your education; committed to bringing the classroom to you.

Keep it up!

Eileen