by Online and hybrid classes offer flexible study times, freedom to travel or work during traditional class times and the ability to work ahead on classwork as needed. My personal favorite thing about studying online is “attending class” from my laptop, outdoors, on a beautiful day, in the comfiest clothes I own.
Self-discipline is defined by Oxford Languages as “the ability to pursue what one thinks is right despite temptations to abandon it.” As a student, you want to be self-disciplined in your pursuit of good grades, learning and progress toward graduation!
Here are five things successful online students do!
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Attend.
“Go” to Class. Be sure to physically attend your in-person hybrid classes. If you have a Zoom class or recorded lecture, virtually attend and watch it in a quiet place. Take notes like you would during an in-person lecture.
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Organize.
Get a system for keeping up with due dates. Without an in-person professor reminding you what is due and when, it can be easy to overlook an assignment! Use a weekly planner, Canvas calendar, or your phone calendar and input every single due date as you find out about it. With all of your assignments in one place, you’ll know exactly what you need to do — and when to do it!
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Study.
Set a schedule for study and homework time. In addition to “going” to class for online and hybrid courses, you also need to have the regular amount of study time to memorize and practice the new material you are learning. Plan in daily time to study when you won’t be tempted to hang out with friends. For example, you probably won’t want to be practicing Algebra on a Friday night, so try to study in the morning on that day!
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Silence.
Turn off your phone — or put it on silent, or in sleep mode during your study times. The more attention you give your classes, the quicker you will be able to complete assignments and learn information! This goes for roommates and friends too! Let them know (politely) when you need focused study time and when you’re down to hang again.
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Ask.
Your professor is your best resource. Call, email, meet with or Zoom your professor! Even if you don’t have any questions yet, make sure you know how to contact your professor! The syllabus or “Welcome Module” on Canvas will indicate how and when each professor can be contacted.
At TJC, our goal is to make sure that you have all of the resources you need to succeed in class. If you are worried about how to do an assignment or have looked over all the resources provided but still aren’t sure how to study for exams, reach out!
If you do these five things consistently, you are well on your way to being one of the many successful TJC students!
