 Is Distance Learning Right for You?
Find Out if You Have the Five Qualities of Successful Distance Learners (take the quiz!)
- Successful distance learners do just as well, if not better, without people looking over their shoulders. While some people need teachers to keep them motivated and on-task, distance learners are able to motivate themselves. They don’t need others to encourage them consistently. The most successful students are self-motivated and set their own goals.
- Successful distance learners never (or at least rarely) procrastinate. You’ll rarely find them putting off assignments or waiting until the last moment to write their papers. These students enjoy the freedom of working on their own schedule instead of waiting for an entire class. However, they understand that putting off their work too often can end up adding months, if not years, to their studies.
- Successful distance learners have good reading comprehension skills. While most people learn by listening to lectures and taking notes, the majority of distance learners are expected to master material through reading alone. Although some distance learning courses offer video recordings and audio clips, most programs require that students understand a large amount of information that is only available through written text. These students are able to comprehend texts in a variety of formats.
- Successful distance learners can resist constant distractions. Whether it’s the phone ringing off the hook or the allure of the TV, everyone faces distractions. Successful students know how to filter out the constant disturbances that threaten their progress. They feel comfortable turning down an invitation or letting the machine pick up the phone when they know there is work to be done.
- Successful distance learners feel alright about missing the social elements of traditional schools. Many of the social events available in traditional school are not available in a distance learning environment. While every effort is made to connect students through the curriculum and planned social activities, students in a distance learning environment must be prepared to get their social engagement outside of school.
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