Time management for studying online courses
Have you just signed up to study a qualification online and are now struggling to find the time to complete it?
Time management is not really about managing time, it is actually about managing yourself. There are 24 hours in every day - it is up to you to choose how to use them.
Here are 5 tips to help you out.
In order to get the most out of these tips you will need to make use of a spreadsheet or any other document that helps you create lists and add data.
1.Know what you need to achieve and how it is to be achieved.
If you are studying for a qualification your course will have a set of learning outcomes and assessment criteria. Once you have a copy of this the best thing to do is create a spreadsheet for the qualification. Create a sheet for each unit of study. Note the learning outcomes for each unit and against each learning outcome note down the associated assessment criteria. For most qualifications each learning outcome will have one or more assessment criteria which need to be completed to pass the course.
Once you know what the assessment criteria are, you also need to know how to achieve them. For example is your course assessed through written assignments, submission of work products, observations by your assessor, witness statements, test papers, skills tests… Find out how you will be assessed and then you will know what you need to work towards. Add this information to your spreadsheet.
2. Prioritise the tasks
Note down any deadlines given by the course provider, these may need to be met or you will not pass the course. Also consider your own personal deadlines - if this is an online course that you complete at your own pace set a target date for completion. You could also set interim target dates for achieving set parts of the course.
Then decide which tasks need to be done first - put dates onto your spreadsheet
3. Focus on one task at a time - no more multi-tasking!
Research has shown that multi-tasking doesn't work. (Multi-tasking article)
To avoid the slowdown caused by trying to multitask try to avoid distractions when working on your course. Create a work space that allows you to concentrate on your tasks, this could be at home, in a coffee shop or in your camper van. Switch off your phone, turn off notifications on your computer and only have open the applications you need to study or write.
4. Structure your time
Research has also shown that it is best to focus for about 20 minutes at a time, set a timer so you can just concentrate on studying. Give yourself a little treat after each 20 minutes such as a 5 minute walk, order another coffee, or a 5 minute meditation - the only thing not to do is check your phone!
Think about the time of day that you find it easiest to study and to have time available around other work and family commitments. Maybe you could get up an hour earlier each day and fit in some study before everyone else gets up.
5. Track your achievements
When you have completed your period of study mark off what you have achieved on your spreadsheet. If you have completed an assignment and can submit it through an online portal then make sure it is uploaded and give yourself a big pat on the back!
I hope these tips work, if you have any other productivity ideas or tips please share them in the comments below.