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Make the most of your online learning

Nicole Laidler • March 17, 2021

Make the most of your online learning

Western Continuing Studies is no stranger to high-quality online learning. Prior to COVID-19, around 30 per cent of our courses were offered online. This winter, we’re proud to say that our classrooms are entirely virtual and courses are being offered in four formats to meet the needs of our diverse learners.

Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for a competitive edge in today’s job market, or a working professional wanting to upgrade your skills, online learning can be a great way to increase your knowledge, strengthen your credentials, and grow your network while balancing other life commitments.

But online classes can also present unique challenges – if you’re not prepared.

Christine Wilton, Program Manager, Professional and Corporate Learning at WCS, has been working with online instructors and their students for more than a decade. As WCS gets ready to launch a winter semester with 40 online courses on offer, she shares the following tips for students looking to excel in the virtual classroom.

Read the full story online, as a PDF, or continue below.

Choose the learning format that fits

Not everyone learns the same way. Some students have the discipline to be completely self-directed. Others thrive on the interaction between teacher and student. That’s why WCS offers courses in four online formats: Online-Paced, Online – Self-Paced, Online-With Real Time Learning, Online-Live.

“It’s important to understand how the course will be delivered and to make sure it works for you,” says Wilton.

Log on early and often

Whether you’ve signed up for self-directed classes or will be joining a live virtual classroom, make sure you show up – especially on the first day. That’s when most teachers review course materials and expectations, and provide time for introductions so you can meet your fellow learners.

“You don’t want to feel like you’re behind before you even start,” says Wilton.

At WCS, students typically gain access to their online courses a few days before the official start. That gives people the opportunity to become familiar with the format and to make sure their technical skills are up to the task.

“Our courses are designed to be accessible for people who have never learned online before,” notes Wilton. “But if you find yourself stuck, our information specialists are available to help walk you through.”

Once you’re up and running, make a commitment to your studies. “Like any type of learning, you really get out what your put in,” Wilton says.

Establish a study routine

The flexibility to learn on your own schedule is one advantage of taking classes online. But if your time-management skills are lacking, that freedom can pose a challenge.

“With online learning, you are responsible for staying accountable and motivated,” Wilton explains. “It’s important to set goals, create a study schedule, and have a dedicated space where you can learn without distractions.”

It’s a good idea to look through the course syllabus to determine how much time you’ll need each week for lectures, readings, assignments, and participating in any forums. Make note of important dates, so you don’t find yourself cramming for an exam or pulling an all-nighter to finish a project. Be realistic about other commitments, and create a schedule that works for you.

Have a hard time sticking to your plan? Pair up with a classmate or ask a family member or friend to be your accountability partner.

Be an active participant

Taking online classes can be an isolating experience, but it doesn’t have to be. “Make an effort to connect with classmates by participating in online forums,” suggests Wilton. Many WCS classes create a private Facebook group or WhatsApp chat where students can discuss the latest lecture, ask for help, or just get to know each other better.

One of the biggest benefits of online learning is having the chance to meet people from all over the world. “Expanding our online course offerings has really broadened our student base,” says Wilton. “We have a lot of Western alumni reconnecting through our programs. Having a global perspective really enhances your learning. So that’s been exciting to see.”

Ask for help if you need it

If you are struggling to understand the material, or feel like you are falling behind, speak up. “Instructors are there to support learning,” Wilton says. Don’t wait until the last minute to email your teacher to ask a question or to report an issue.

Remember why you started

If you are juggling work and family commitments, adding an online course to the mix can feel overwhelming at times. But Wilton says continuous learning is always worth the effort. “There are all kinds of hidden benefits, beyond the specific learning objectives.”

With a huge shift to online work, taking online courses is a great way to improve virtual communication and collaboration skills, grow your international network, and to demonstrate that you are self-motivated and have good time-management skills.

“These are the types of things that employers will be looking for in the post pandemic world,” says Wilton.

Nicole Laidler is a freelance reporter, copywriter and content creator, serving clients in London, Toronto and throughout Southwestern Ontario. She helps people grow their success, one word at a time.

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