The distance learning experience

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The distance learning experience

Distance learning does not have the rhythm and the pace associated with contact learning. In contact learning, class timetables, lecture outlines and planned interactions guide the unfolding of the learning experience. A distance learning provider can anticipate many of the challenges associated with distance learning by including additional information and self-assessment tasks as part of the course materials. Ultimately though, DL requires an independent learner and it can be a lonely journey. The successful distance learner takes control of his/her learning experience and manages it so as to achieve maximum benefit.

Lifestyle and career commitments

Discuss the challenges inherent to your studies with family members and friends to determine how best they can support your efforts.
Discuss your studies and career aspirations with your employer to ensure understanding and support in the workplace.
Plan your time at home in such a way that you allocate sufficient time to your studies as well as to other activities.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle by balancing your studies with other relaxing activities, including exercise.

Approaching your studies

Research into study techniques shows that very few people study in exactly the same manner. However, certain general techniques have been shown to produce good results. Whilst these techniques are not a magic formula, by practising them and applying them you will gain valuable insight into the knowledge and outcomes expected from you. Effective study techniques are central to being thoroughly prepared for assessment.

Obtain all the prescribed books and required materials as early as possible.
Plan your studies according to the requirements of each module by compiling a detailed study schedule. In this way you will be able to allocate your precious time realistically to the tasks at hand. Revise this schedule as needed.
Your schedule should be sufficiently detailed and broken down into weekly blocks indicating time for study, social activities as well as work time. It is important that sufficient time is also allocated for sleep!
Decide on the best time of the day for you to study. Recognize your ‘biological clock’ and set your study timetable accordingly and adhere to it.
Planning should take into account assignment submission dates with sufficient time being allocated to cover all the material to be assessed for the assignment and the examination adequately. Remember to allow sufficient time for revision purposes as this is critical to enhance your chances of success in the examination.
Factor 'guilt-free' rest days into your schedule allowing your brain time to be refreshed.
You should only study when you are rested, alert and have planned for it. Last minute studying is the result of bad planning and is generally a waste of time.
Share your completed study schedule with family members / housemates to ensure their buy-in and cooperation during these study times.
Make sure that you have all the contact details for tutors and know how to submit queries and how to access student support online.
A study group can offer peer support – consider the following guidelines:
- Choose two or three other students who share your learning goals.
- Set a specific time, place and topic of study.
- Ensure that everyone does the initial studying of the material and brings questions to the group.
- Compare notes and focus on unanswered questions and predicted questions for the examination.
- Debate issues or quiz each other.
- Assign topics where one learner is designated to ‘teach’ the others.

Make sure that you have all the important dates: assignment due dates, examination briefing sessions and examination dates.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to revise your schedule – if it doesn’t work, redo it.

Part 3 will provide valuable tips on how to allocate and use your study time efficiently.