Creating a Space to Study Online
Distance learners enjoy the freedom of learning whenever and wherever they want. There are two different categories of distance learners in this group: the study-at-homes, and the study-on-the-moves.
Study-on-the-moves types are businessmen, artists, and military members that are utilizing distance learning as a means to get a college degree while somewhere else that is not home, but is also on-the-move and not really near a campus.
Then there are the study-at-homes, the distance learners that are learning online just because that’s what they enjoy.
If you’re a study-at-homes kind of student, you may be distracted by home luxuries like snacks, phone calls, family, roommates, and disorganization. It’s to your benefit to create an environment where you can focus on your schoolwork and classes, and be as uninterrupted as possible.
Don’t worry; you can still take your next exam in your pajamas.
What constitutes a study spot?
It’s any special location in your home that you put together just to get your work done. Online students aren’t the only people in need of this; you’ll commonly hear about people working from home having a “study spot,” such as authors and entrepreneurs.
Your study spot should not be on the bed or next to the television. It should be away from the chaos of home life, a little peaceful niche that is dedicated to focusing on your work. A small home office, or even a little corner in a room will work out. When you are in your study spot, your family should know you’re busy with serious work.
Keep it clean and quiet.
Your study spot should be organized, tidy, and silent. Your definition of organized and tidy is what matters in this one, but you want to always be able to have any books, supplies, etc. at your fingertips for immediate disposal as you work on your class. It should be a comfortable temperature. Here’s some key things to make sure you’re comfortable and set:
- Computer/office desk.
- Computer/office chair. Make sure it’s comfortable!
- Keep all of your necessary materials handy, including passwords, syllabi, etc.
- Make it welcoming. You want to feel as inclined to be there as possible. If this involves music, a few snacks, or a painting, that’s fine. Inspirational posters and quotes are also common.
Upkeep the study spot rules.
Some common rules to lay down about your study spot:
- A specific time of day. Between 9 am and 1 pm, you are in your study spot, undisturbed, working on your degree.
- No telephone/cellphone.
- No television.
- One decent break instead of innumerable, interrupting little breaks.
You should design your rules in a way that works for you.
Don’t obsess over perfection.
If you get interrupted from time to time from something important, if there’s a bit of noise still distracting you–these are factors that are just going to happen. It’s one of the parts of studying at home. With the right study spot and guidelines, however, the study-at-homes student will experience a dramatic shift in the success of their education.
