Starting a new learning journey is an exciting experience that can really improve your life and create new opportunities. But, it's not always easy, especially when it's hard to stay away from distractions and keep your motivation up. If you're finding it tough to stop putting things off or to keep your concentration on your online studies, you should know that this is a common issue many people face.
If you’re wondering how to become a successful student, we’re here to help. To support you on your quest for knowledge, we've assembled a series of eight strategies tailored to help you become a super learner. These insights are designed to fuel your motivation for studying and aid you in mastering the art of independent learning.
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How Can I Motivate Myself to Study Online? 8 Strategies to Becoming A Super Learner
1. Understand Your 'Why'
Every educational journey begins with a purpose. Understanding why you're enrolled in a course is pivotal. Is it a stepping stone towards career advancement or a new business, or a venture into a personal interest? Whatever your motive, let it be the beacon that guides you through moments of doubt or distraction.
But what if your end goal isn’t crystal clear? This is incredibly common, and it's no reason to stall your progress. Consider experimenting with short courses in different fields to see what sparks your enthusiasm. Often, the process of learning something new helps uncover a hidden passion or a latent talent. And sometimes, the course that seemed the least aligned with your initial interests might just be the one that offers the most profound insights and excitement. Take a moment to explore the diverse range of online courses at Centre of Excellence and see what aligns with your passions or professional aims.
2. Establish Your Rhythm
Life’s unpredictable nature requires an adaptable learning approach. Children’s schedules, work commitments, and even our social lives don't run on a fixed timetable – and neither should your learning. Designing a study schedule that fits seamlessly into the unique puzzle of your daily life is a necessity for the modern student.
Need inspiration? Below is a structured study table that incorporates the given details for a full-time worker, ensuring that study sessions are brief and effective, fitting around a standard working day and allowing time for relaxation and other commitments:
| Time of Day | Activity | Duration | Details |
| Commute | Commute Learning | 20-30 minutes | Listen to educational podcasts and audiobooks, or use the Centre of Excellence app. |
| Lunch Break | Lunchtime Quick Study | 15-20 minutes | Read study materials, watch instructional videos, review flashcards. |
| Post-Work | Post-Work Study Session | 30-45 minutes | Participate in online discussions, work through problem sets or other activities. |
One of the beauties of online learning is the freedom to progress at your own pace. With the Centre of Excellence, your educational advancement is not tethered to a traditional classroom clock – instead you can tailor your learning experience to your lifestyle. Are you energized by the first light of day? Or do you find clarity in the quiet of midnight? By identifying the times when your concentration peaks, you can schedule your study sessions to align with your productivity levels.
Most importantly, there is no rush. Listen to your body’s signals and your mind’s needs, and craft a study schedule that fits seamlessly into your life. Your journey through education is a personal one, and not a race to be won.
3. Create Your Ideal Study Zone
Your physical surroundings play a crucial role in how effectively you can immerse yourself in learning. It's about more than just finding a quiet space; it's about creating an environment that resonates with your personal learning style and enhances your ability to focus and absorb information:
- Studying at home: While a dedicated home office may be ideal, it's not always possible. Instead, look for a corner of your home that feels naturally comfortable and inviting. This could be a little-used nook by a window with natural light or a spot at your dining table with a view of an artwork that calms you. Invest in organising this area with the necessary supplies: a comfortable chair, ample lighting, and minimal clutter. Consider the use of plants, colours or crystals to promote concentration.
- Studying in public: If your home environment is too bustling, a cosy corner of a local café or a bench in a serene park might be your perfect learning oasis. The key here is to find a place where the ambient noise is consistent and not disruptive. For many, the soft hum of a coffee shop provides just enough background noise to help concentrate. Remember to bring headphones to listen to white noise or instrumental music if the ambient sounds become too distracting.
- Studying on the go: For those with unpredictable schedules, creating a conducive study environment requires a bit more creativity. This is where mindfulness can be a powerful tool. Practices like deep breathing or visualisation can help you carve out a mental space of focus, effectively turning any location into a zone of learning. You can enhance this with physical cues: a particular type of music or a small object you always have with you when you study, like a special notebook or pen, can signal to your brain that it's time to focus, regardless of where you are.
By taking control of your environment, you craft a personalized study sanctuary that not only invites you into the world of learning but supports you throughout your educational journey.
4. Identify How You Learn Best
The journey of learning is deeply personal. By identifying the method through which information resonates with you, you can tailor your study approach for maximum retention and enjoyment. There are several models of learning styles, and here’s how you can leverage each one:
- Auditory Learners: Listen and Learn
If you find that you grasp information better when you hear it, you’re likely an auditory learner. Integrate audio resources into your study routine. Listen to podcasts and audiobooks, record your lectures and play them back, or even read aloud to yourself. Discussions and debates can also reinforce your learning. Technologies like text-to-speech software can transform written material into an audio format.
- Visual Learners: Seeing is Believing
Visual learners benefit from seeing the material they need to learn. Use charts, graphs, and diagrams to organise information visually. Color-coding notes, flashcards, and mind maps can be particularly effective. When possible, watch videos on the subject matter to see concepts in action.
- Kinesthetic Learners: Movement and Interaction
Those who learn best through experience and movement are kinesthetic learners. If this is you, incorporate hands-on activities like building models or conducting experiments. Take frequent breaks during study sessions to move around. Role-playing a concept or teaching the material to someone else can also be excellent ways to learn through action.
- Reading/Writing Learners: Write It Down to Make It Stick
If you find that writing down the information or reading it in text form is most effective for you, embrace a study strategy that focuses on these elements. Summarize information in your own words, create lists, and use traditional note-taking methods. Online forums and blogs can also be valuable tools, as they allow for interaction with the material through writing and reading.
Most people are not confined to one learning style, so feel free to combine elements from each to suit your needs. Perhaps listening to a lecture (auditory) while walking (kinesthetic) works for you, or you may prefer to write down what you’ve learned and then review it using colorful diagrams (reading/writing + visual). Experiment with different methods and mix and match until you find the combination that clicks.
5. Set Achievable Objectives With SMART Goal-Setting
The SMART framework refines the goal-setting process to ensure your objectives are clear and reachable within a specified time frame. Here's how to apply each aspect of the SMART criteria to shape effective goals:
- Specific: Pinpoint what you want to accomplish. Instead of saying, "I want to get better at Spanish," define what 'better' means. Is it to hold a five-minute conversation fluently, order a meal without stumbling, or watch a film without subtitles? A specific goal has a much greater chance of being accomplished because it gives you a clear direction.
- Measurable: Determine how you'll measure success. For instance, rather than saying "I will study more," set a measurable goal like "I will complete one module per week." This allows you to celebrate when you achieve each milestone, keeping you motivated.
- Achievable: Set attainable targets. If you aim to finish a 12-module course in three months while working full-time, ask yourself if this is realistic considering your other commitments.
- Relevant: Ensure your goals align with your overall objectives. A relevant goal must align with your other objectives, both short and long-term. If you're aiming to enhance your career in IT, you might set a goal to learn a specific programming language that's in high demand within the industry.
- Timed: Every goal should have a start and finish date. If you give yourself a deadline, you create a sense of urgency that can spur action. "I will complete the first draft of my novel by December 1st" is a timed goal that compels you to plan your daily and weekly tasks accordingly.
These goals will act as milestones, propelling you forward and keeping the lure of procrastination at bay. Remember, while setting SMART goals is strategic, it's also important to revisit and adjust them periodically to reflect changes in your circumstances or priorities.
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6. Navigate Through Challenges to Overcome Learning Obstacles
Encountering difficulties is a natural part of any educational process. Approach each new challenge with a problem-solving mindset and follow our tips below:
- Break down the issue. If you're stumped by a complex topic, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable parts can make it less intimidating.
- Make use of all the resources at your disposal. Online forums, educational apps, and even social media groups can provide support and insight.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. This could mean discussing the problem with a peer, joining a study group, or seeking guidance from a tutor. Often, a different perspective can help you see the solution you've been missing.
- Allow time for digestion. It's remarkable how often a good night's sleep or a walk in the park can lead to a breakthrough. This 'downtime' can be when your brain connects the dots, turning confusion into clarity.
- Reframe challenges as learning opportunities. Rather than seeing them as frustrating hindrances, view them as puzzles to be solved, each one strengthening your understanding and skills.
7. Reflect and Reward
It’s important to look back at how far you’ve come and pat yourself on the back for all your hard work. Progress in learning is not always linear, but every step forward, no matter how small, is a triumph.
Celebrate small milestones, from completing a challenging chapter to passing a quiz, or simply understanding a concept that once baffled you. These milestones, when recognised, serve as motivation and can greatly enhance your overall learning experience.
So, remember to reward yourself for the hard work you've put in. It could be something small like a favourite treat after a study session or something significant like a day out after completing a course module. Rewards can boost your morale and act as incentives for future accomplishments.
8. Embrace Community Support
Learning is not a solitary venture! Here's how engaging with a community of fellow learners and educators can enrich your experience:
Join a Study Group
Upon enrolling in a course with the Centre of Excellence, you gain access to an exclusive community of like-minded individuals in our Facebook Study Group. This group is a hub for collaborative learning where you can:
- Exchange Ideas: Share your thoughts, ask questions, and explore new perspectives with peers who are just as passionate about learning as you are.
- Seek and Offer Support: Sometimes a word of encouragement or a shared experience can make all the difference. The group is a space to find support during challenging times and to offer it when you can.
- Network with Peers: Connect with individuals from various backgrounds and disciplines. These connections can lead to friendships, professional networks, and unexpected opportunities for growth.
Involve Your Personal Network
Don’t overlook the support that can come from your personal circle. Talking about your learning goals and progress with friends and family can provide a sense of accountability and motivation. They might also offer different viewpoints or even decide to join you in learning.
Collaborate in Study Groups
Whether it's through the Centre of Excellence's platforms or by forming your own, study groups are invaluable. They allow you to delve deeper into subjects, clarify doubts collectively, and reinforce your knowledge by teaching others.
Reach Out to Centre of Excellence's Team
The Centre of Excellence is not just about providing courses; it's about fostering a nurturing environment where every student can thrive. Our team is always ready to guide you through any part of your educational journey, from technical support to academic advice.
The Path to Becoming a Super Learner
Are you ready to take your learning to the next level? Centre of Excellence is here to support your educational journey every step of the way. When you join us, we’ll provide you with complimentary access to our exclusive 'How to Become a Super Learner' course. This will offer you an insight into the typical structure of our courses, and empower you with the skills needed to learn efficiently, stay motivated, and achieve your academic and personal development goals.
Embark on Your Super Learning Journey Today!
Join the ranks of successful learners who have harnessed the power of our strategies and resources. Visit our online courses now to unlock your potential and transform your aspirations into achievements.
