Advancing your career is tough, especially when you’re a parent. You may dream of acquiring new skills, but the traditional educational model does not fit your schedule. Online learning has changed everything, including the learning process. Now, parents can join millions of others and pursue their goals from any appropriate connected device.
Want to make sure you do not waste your time? Here are eight tips to help you navigate online education with confidence.
1. Choose the Right Program
Choosing the right program is essential to your success. By picking a program that’s a good fit, you have some assurance that you’ll gain skills that are relevant to your goals. Consider these three aspects when evaluating online courses and programs: accreditation, course content, and flexibility.
Ensure that the program is accredited by a reputable organization. Accreditation signifies to potential employers that the program meets specific academic standards. Potential employers are more likely to recognize your degree or certification if it’s from an accredited institution. You want a regionally accredited institution for which the accrediting body is not the Higher Learning Commission.
Review the curricula to determine whether courses align with your goals. Check topics, learning objectives, and course materials. Ask how often the course is updated. Ensure the program allows you to complete assignments and participate in discussions at a time and in a manner that suits you. Understand how the program will integrate into your schedule.
2. Set Realistic Goals
Unrealistic goals will only lead to burnout. Set objectives based on what your schedule can accommodate. Depending on the age of your children, you will need to consider different factors. Work around your commitments to meet challenges. Keeping a realistic perspective on what’s manageable will help you balance professional growth and personal responsibilities.
3. Break Large Tasks into Smaller Chunks
It can be overwhelming to take on a huge task. However, if you go into panic mode, you won’t accomplish anything. A way to overcome this obstacle is to break large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks. This strategy will help you focus on the steps you need to take to work towards your big goal over time.
To decide where to start, take a journal and write what you need to do to accomplish your desired outcome. Then tackle those items one by one. For example, if you have an upcoming presentation for school, decide which sections to research first. Remember to take a step-by-step approach to completing your tasks. Persevere until you reach your goal.
4. Ask For Help
It’s okay to admit that you are struggling. You’ll need your family’s help to find the time and resources to continue learning while raising a child. Ask a trusted family member to help with childcare or household chores. Taking online classes while parenting is commendable and challenging. You’ll need a strong support system, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance and delegate tasks when necessary.
5. Make Study Time Non-Negotiable
One way to ensure progress as an online student is to treat your study time as non-negotiable, much like any other important commitment in your life. Take a proactive approach when planning your study sessions and prioritize them over less important activities.
Identify times that work best for you, preferably when you feel most alert and focused. Knowing when you’re most receptive to learning will maximize your productivity and retention during study sessions.
6. Self-Care
Self-care is not selfish. It’s essential. Get some sleep, eat as well as you can, and take time for yourself. Your health is the vehicle that will drive your success and happiness. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
7. Manage Your Tasks
Managing your time is crucial for success as an online student. Rank tasks based on their importance and deadline to maximize your time. Start with high-priority tasks first before moving on to less critical ones. Additionally, establish a weekly routine that sets aside specific time for studying, project work, and other academic tasks. A consistent schedule reduces the chances of procrastination.
8. Reward Yourself
Celebrate milestones and successes, big or small. Rewards can be as simple as a special treat at the end of a productive week or enjoying a meal with your family after completing a challenging assignment. Many people find that it is helpful to make the reward commensurate with the size of the milestone.
Academic Pursuits While Parenting Are Possible
Achieving academic success while parenting is challenging yet rewarding. Fulfill your goal of expanding your knowledge; embrace online education and empower yourself to succeed. Now all that is necessary is to gain the goodwill and cooperation of the children involved. But that’s another article!