Master your online course with 10 tested top tips!

Enrolled on an online course? Whether you’re a beginner or a digital education expert, read on to discover our top ten tips to maximize your online learning.

If you need more thorough guidance on studying online, the University of Leeds has a selection of free online courses that can support you.

But for a brief roundup on how to best enjoy and engage with your online courses, read our tips below…

1. Establish a comfortable workspace.

When preparing to learn remotely, your working environment matters. Whilst you may find that the hustle and bustle of a busy train or coffee shop aids your concentration, others may require total silence. Whatever you prefer, being comfortable is key — so long as you avoid mixing the spaces you study and relax.

2. Put your headphones in

To truly absorb and appreciate the content of an online course, your full focus is essential. Headphones are a sure way to engage with recorded resources and minimize outside distractions. If the online course content doesn’t include video but you are struggling to engage with the written copy, listen to some ‘lo-fi beats’ or a relaxation playlist to focus your attention.

3. Choose the right time to study

Studying online gives you the flexibility to fit learning around your life. However, choosing a time to study is not as simple as doing it when you are free. Studying when you are preoccupied, ill, short on time or late at night will limit your concentration and ability to register the meaning of course content. To effectively listen, process and reflect upon important information, ensure that you are in the correct headspace when you sit down to work.

If you particularly struggle with your concentration, enrol on Learning Online: Studying and Reflecting.

4. Avoid technical faux pas

There is nothing worse than experiencing a Wi-Fi issue or your laptop dying when you are fully motivated and engaged with your work. Do not let this be your excuse for procrastination! Check all systems are OK before starting your studies.

5. Practice note-making

Good note-making helps you to retain information a lot more easily. It can also help you to:

• Stay actively engaged with your work
• Understand the content and clarify your thought process

Note-making is not about writing down every piece of content that you read or hear. It’s a process of reviewing, connecting and combining ideas. Get more help on effective note making from ‘Skills to Succeed at University’.

6. Grab a cup of tea or coffee 😊

Two key building blocks for a successful study session are comfort and reward. A cup of tea or coffee will fulfil this need by providing you with something to look forward to during and after a day of studying! Treats will keep you motivated and satisfied.

7. Engage with other course participants

Finding an element of your course difficult? You will not be alone! It’s worth noting that your coursemates will be able to offer clarity and reassurance to keep you on track. Remote peer support, known as ‘Social learning’, is an advantage of the online course experience. For this reason, it is central to the pedagogical design of the Leeds online courses which can be found on FutureLearn. See here for more information about social learning.

8. Stay disciplined

Many of us have started a course, only to leave it unfinished. Why waste your time and effort? Avoid this by ensuring that you sign up for courses with a syllabus you will be eager to start and complete. This way, you can ensure you achieve the final qualification and reap the benefits!

9. Organize your time and ensure completion is realistic

Is your course a free trial with a time limit? If this is the case, you should make a clear note of this in your study plan. Mark out the final date for completion in your diary, but also mark a ‘fake’ deadline the week prior. You should then be able to finish your course with time to spare. Our ‘Skills to Succeed at University’ course can be of help if you need to strengthen your time management skills!

10. Overwhelmed? Take a break

Despite having that soothing cup of tea and listening to relaxing music, you still need a moment to breathe outside of your study space. Obviously, regular breaks are essential to maintaining your dedication and focus — so make sure to take them now and again! Fresh air and a (brief) change of scenery will not go amiss.

Find out more about our selection of free online courses to help you with your online learning.

Leeds students can access these courses for free from the University of Leeds FutureLearn Campus.