Everyone knows by now that online training (also called e-learning, distance learning or virtual training) has become essential.
This flexible learning style offers many benefits, but it also requires discipline and organization to be successful.
Whether the training is live in webinar format or pre-recorded (archived), we reveal 5 key tips to maximize your chances of success in your online training.
Tip 1: Create a conducive study environment
Child screaming and not letting parent concentrate on online training
One of the first challenges when taking an online course, especially like most of our team (being parents), is recreating a setting similar to that of a traditional classroom.
Here are some recommendations for creating an optimal learning space :
Dedicate a quiet, comfortable space for studying, ideally a closed room with a desk or table. Avoid high-traffic areas.
Eliminate distractions as much as possible : phone on silent, television off, notifications disabled on the computer, etc.
Gather all the necessary tools within reach: computer/tablet, pens, notebooks, manuals, calculator, etc.
Promote natural lighting and regularly ventilate the room to stay alert and focused.
For parents , have another person present to care for your children (if applicable).
By creating this ideal learning environment , you will reproduce the same conditions as in the classroom and optimize your ability to concentrate to succeed in your online training.
It is important to mention that you need to have good tools to follow the training without interruption or technical problems.
Tip 2: Create a realistic schedule
The flexibility of distance learning is an undeniable advantage, but it can also be a trap if you don’t manage your time well.
Here are some tips for creating an effective schedule :
Set aside fixed times to study, just as you would if you were attending a face-to-face class. Ideally, you should choose your “sweet spots” when you’re most productive.
Schedule regular study sessions of about 1 to 2 hours, interspersed with frequent breaks to stay focused. Are you familiar with the 20-20-20 technique ? We explain it in the blog on: ” Eye strain and blue light “
Include time to review material , do exercises, read additional resources, etc.
Give yourself some free time! Your training shouldn’t take precedence over your personal and professional life.
Tip 3: Actively participate in interactions
“Education is not something that is given, but a natural process that must be encouraged.” – Book: Maria Montessori, The Child (1936), page 4
One of the advantages of online training is the ability to easily interact with other learners and instructors.
Actively participate in discussion forums : ask questions, answer others’ questions, share your knowledge.
Attend interactive webinars or Q&A sessions to delve deeper into specific topics.
Suggest or join virtual study groups to review material, help each other, etc.
Collaborate on group work by sharing your respective strengths and learning strategies.
The more involved and connected you are with the learning community , the more motivated you will stay and maximize your chances of succeeding in your online training.
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To learn more about our StudioCast platform , come talk to us live.
Tip 4: Practice active learning
Active learning involves being fully engaged in the process of acquiring new skills , rather than remaining passive about the content.
Take detailed notes during lectures or while reading resources. Rewriting will help you remember better.
Review : Review your notes and summaries regularly.
By staying consistently engaged in the process , you will assimilate the material much better and maximize your chances of succeeding in your online training.
Tip 5: Set goals and celebrate milestones
Representation of a goal in life.Taking an online course requires a sustained commitment over a long period of time .To stay motivated, it’s essential to set realistic goals and regularly celebrate your progress .
Here are some tips:
Define your general goals (obtain certification, develop new skills, etc.) as well as shorter-term sub-goals (complete a module, pass an exam, etc.)
Reward yourself for each goal you achieve, even if it’s a symbolic one.
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