Making the most of online learning

Making the most of online learning: the keys to success in a programme like the diploma in corporate governance or ESG.

Online learning is a unique platform that can enrich your learning experience, but maximising its potential takes dedication and planning. Online programmes are different from in-person classes that you have taken before. They’re equally beneficial but require a specific skill set you’ll need to adopt. 

Capabilities like networking, preparation, and strong time management are essential to online program success. Plan to master these four skills when pursuing online education programmes.

Online learning comes in many formats. Sometimes, even the same course is offered in different formats to suit your needs. 

The key to any format is to recognise that even though you’re working through screens, you’re still learning alongside others who want to acquire the same skill sets. 

You’ll undoubtedly be focused on the insights teachers bring. Still, if the programme comes with networking sessions, breakout rooms, and membership opportunities, you should also make the most of these. Use them to learn about your colleagues, their interests, and where they work. This is how you build a community for yourself.

You’re likely balancing your online learning with your professional and family responsibilities, making studying for course modules challenging. Still, as much as possible, you should set aside time before every session to review what you’ll be learning. 

Ask yourself:

• What do I already know about this topic? 
• What am I excited to learn about this topic? 
• Why is mastering this area important for my professional goals? 
• How can I get the most out of this module? 

Take time to look through the supporting content that your course provides. These often involve expert insights, guides, templates and other items to support your learning.

The fear of asking questions is a common issue for many people. Regarding online learning, the isolation may contribute even more to the aversion. But as you might expect, nothing tops the value of asking questions while you’re learning. 

Don’t worry about coming across as inexperienced; you probably won’t, and even if you do, so what? It’s a learning course, and the only person who should worry about looking inexperienced is the teacher. 

Be sure to share your ideas with others in your course, too. Experienced instructors can help you identify where your thinking is strongest and where you can improve. Your insights may be helpful to others in the programme as well. Remember that learning is a participatory experience — you get the most out of it when you put in full thought and effort. 

The beauty of online learning is that you will likely have multiple options to complete your course. This means you can do some tailoring to suit your diary needs. 

In self-paced courses, you can plan entirely according to your schedule. So, if you’re only free to study in the early morning or evening or on weekends, it doesn’t matter. You’ll still come away with the same information.

One key recommendation is to apply routine to your learning, especially if your course is entirely self-paced. While studying “when you feel like it” might be tempting, you’ll likely see more success if you follow a work pattern. It will give you more structure.