If you’re looking for ways to build some new skills, gain a qualification, or engage in necessary annual professional development hours, you might be considering online courses or webinars.
Digital learning was already going from strength to strength before the global pandemic hit, but it has boomed even more in the last 18 months or so with so many people stuck at home more, out of work, or re-evaluating their life and career choices.
eLearning opportunities are many and varied and can provide numerous benefits for students. However, it is quite different from in-person education, and you need to know how to make the most out of this type of training.
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Get Clear on Your Goals
Start by determining your goals. What do you want to get out of the remote study you engage in? This is likely to be new skills or knowledge, and perhaps even a particular qualification for your career. However, go deeper. For instance, are you looking to challenge yourself, see if you’re interested in a specific topic or not, meet new people, or learn how to study again?
When you have a good understanding of the outcomes you’re after, you should find it easier to choose the right eLearning provider for your needs. With so many options, you need to find a way to narrow down your choices and select well. Making a checklist of goals will help you see which providers are likely to make it possible for you to get what you want out of the learning process.
Another reason to know your goals is that this self-awareness will help you keep on track as your study progresses. We all have times when a curriculum gets tough, and we wonder why we’re putting ourselves through it. Reminding yourself of your goals makes it easier to remain disciplined and motivated and push through the tough assignments.
Ensure Your Internet Access is Stable
When you’re engaged in remote learning, you use the internet all the time. As such, it’s vital to have a stable Wi-Fi connection so you’re not regularly missing out on live content due to tech glitches or wasting time trying to reconnect when you need to watch videos. Make sure you have access to reliable, high-speed internet with a decent data allowance. You don’t want to deal with having your internet dialed back if you use more data than permitted on your current plan, so it’s worth upgrading if needed.
If you live somewhere remote or where internet access is off and on for some other reason, you may need more than a standard Wi-Fi signal, too. For instance, consider switching providers to one who offers better service in your area, use a signal booster, or try a different type of connection altogether, such as satellite or cable internet rather than broadband. Plus, if your modem is an old one, it’s worth buying a new, up-to-date option that will help keep your internet steady and deal better with multiple people using Wi-Fi in your home at the same time.
Use a Variety of Tech Tools to Aid Success
Some other tech tools will help your eLearning time go better, too. For example, it pays to clear up memory on your computer and remove glitches by deleting old and temporary files. Download a trusted, free PC cleaner to help you remove programs that are slowing down your machine. Also, ensure you have comprehensive security software installed on your device to protect you and your data from hacker attacks.
Get into the habit of backing up your work repeatedly so you don’t have issues with lost assignments. It’s wise to back up to the cloud. That way, you can access your work from anywhere, and you know it’s secure. Consider using writing and graphic design tools as needed for your studies, too. For instance, check out Grammarly, Photoshop, and Canva.
If you ever get stuck with course software, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your teachers, other students, and potentially even a dedicated tech person at the educational facility where you study should be able to help.
Furthermore, to get the most out of your online learning, push yourself to take part in group settings. If you do, you’ll have the chance to learn more, stand out to teachers, and get to know the other participants better. Ask questions, get involved in additional discussions, and share resources. 
Following all of these steps will help you enjoy your studies and achieve the best results possible. In turn, you’ll feel your money and time were well spent.
