Online learning has become an increasingly popular mode of education, offering flexibility and convenience. However, it’s not all fun and games; behind the convenience lies a complex psychological landscape that can greatly affect a student’s success. Motivation, self-discipline, and mental health all play a crucial role in a student’s journey toward achieving their educational goals, and I have found them to be particularly important in more flexible environments, such as online classrooms.
Motivation in Online Learning
Motivation is the engine that drives learning, and in the online environment, it can be both a student’s greatest strength and their most significant challenge. As opposed to traditional classrooms, where the physical presence of peers and teachers can help foster motivation, online learners must rely on internal motivation to keep themselves engaged. External motivators like grades and deadlines still matter, of course, but having that intrinsic motivation and the desire to learn for personal growth is key.
However, even if you do have a strong intrinsic motivation for the subject you are studying, staying consistently engaged can certainly be challenging. To make sure you’re staying on track with your learning and tasks, it can be helpful to set clear goals, break the learning process into manageable steps, and create a structured study schedule. For example, I have a digital planner on my iPad, and every week I will make a note of main tasks for that week, using different colours to illustrate level of priority. In addition, before I start any course, I will create a table with all my main tasks and deliverables and will use that document as a guide throughout the course. It also helps to remind myself regularly why I embarked on my educational journey; I find this helps me maintain my enthusiasm, especially in moments of doubt.
Self-Discipline as a Key Factor
Online learners often have a high degree of autonomy, which can be both a blessing and a curse. With the freedom to choose when and where to study comes the responsibility of managing one’s time effectively. This is where self-discipline and time management become critical. Whether you’re easily distracted or not, it’s hard to ignore all the information and content we’re constantly bombarded with, whether via TV, internet (our primary learning platform), or our phones (one of our primary sources of entertainment). The temptation to procrastinate is strong, no matter how motivated you otherwise are.
Effective self-discipline could involve creating a structured routine and creating a personal learning environment where you can thrive regardless of your learning style. It is equally as important to eliminate distractions and develop a sense of accountability. Time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro method (which includes 25 minutes of focused work, followed by 5-minute breaks), can help break study sessions into manageable intervals, making it easier to stay focused. There are numerous apps that can help you track your studying time, while minimizing distractions like pop-up notifications, colours on your screen, etc. Some of the apps I’ve used include “Focus To-Do: Pomodoro & Tasks” and “Engross: Focus Timer & To-Do.”
Mental Health and Online Learning
While online learning offers many advantages, it can also bring about mental health challenges. The isolation of studying alone, the pressure of deadlines, and the stress of managing coursework can take a toll on a student’s mental well-being. Don’t disregard the signs of stress and anxiety, as they can have long-term impacts.
Some of the things you can do to maintain your mental health and wellness during online learning (and in general, actually) are practicing self-care, staying socially connected, and seeking support when you need it. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and allowing yourself time to enjoy your hobbies and even be lazy are essential components of self-care. Furthermore, reaching out to peers and instructors through virtual channels can help combat feelings of isolation. Remember that as an AU student you have access to counselling and a variety of mental health and wellness programs, so don’t hesitate to seek support if you find yourself struggling to cope with the demands of online learning.
Benefits of a Healthy Psychological Approach
You will find that a motivated, self-disciplined, and mentally healthy approach to online learning can yield numerous benefits. Students who harness these psychological principles tend to perform better academically, experience reduced stress levels, and are generally more satisfied with their educational experiences. By understanding and applying these psychological insights, you can make your educational journey a truly valuable and rewarding experience.
In a nutshell, online learning is more than just a technological shift in education; it’s a transformation of the learning experience that demands a keen understanding of the psychology behind it. Motivation, self-discipline, and mental health are not just abstract concepts; they are the cornerstones of success in online education. If you embrace these principles, you will find it easier to navigate the digital landscape with confidence, and to achieve your educational goals while maintaining your mental well-being.