What Mistakes Could Derail Your Online Education?

About a year ago, I realized that there were some serious issues with my kid's school. They weren't on track with their peers, the teachers didn't seem to care, and I could tell that the school needed to be updated significantly. Instead of leaving them there for the year, I started focusing on finding a better school for my little ones. I looked all over the place, and I was able to find an incredible school that really seemed to take children's happiness seriously. After I enrolled my kids, it was incredible to see how much of a difference it made. Check out this blog for great information on finding a great school.

What Mistakes Could Derail Your Online Education?

19 May 2017
 Categories: Education & Development, Blog


As more colleges and universities offer online services, more non-traditional students are taking advantage of the opportunity to further their education. Unfortunately, despite a desire to obtain a degree or certification, some of them are unprepared for the experience of online learning. If you are enrolling in an online program, here are some habits that could have a negative impact on your education. 

Poor Time Management 

One of the keys to success when it comes to online learning is knowing how to manage your time. It can be challenging to do so though. As a non-traditional student, you likely have other obligations, such as children and working. With the addition of online classes, you could have trouble finding time to fit in your studies.  

Before starting your classes, take the time to evaluate your current schedule. If you tend to wing it throughout the day, now is the time to create a schedule. You need to block out time each day to focus on your studies. For instance, you could wake up an hour earlier on certain days to ensure your studies are completed for the day.  

The most important thing to do is create a schedule that works for you. Once classes start, do not be afraid to make adjustments to your schedule, if needed.  

Skipping Interactions With Others 

Even though you are learning online, interactions with other students and your professors is important. In fact, it is usually encouraged by colleges and universities. When you do not have interactions with other students, you are missing out on the opportunity to discuss the class materials and learn about other resources that could make the classes easier for you.  

Failing to interact with your professors could lead to mistakes in your work. Just as professors in traditional brick and mortar schools are there to help, so are your online professors. Ask questions if you need to and participate in any online discussions that the professor and your classmates have started.  

In addition to having a better overall experience with your classmates and professors, you could also score better grades. Professors routinely award participation grades for discussions and you could miss out on the extra points you might need to get ahead.  

Talk to the counselor at your online college to learn about other ways you can stay ahead in your classes. You can also discuss any concerns that you have about the program and find out about additional benefits of online learning. Check out places like Polaris Career Center for more guidance.