How to Know If Self-Paced, Online Education Is Right for You

If you’re considering online courses to boost your resume, finish your degree, or switch careers, there are a couple options to help you make the most of the experience.

Some courses are structured with specific information to be covered each week on a set schedule, while others allow you to learn at your own speed through self-paced learning. Many schools offer self-paced online college-level courses for credit, so you can get ahead while working toward your degree on your own time.

Here’s some detail on what you can expect from self-paced learning:

What is self-paced learning?

Online courses tend to be more flexible than traditional courses, but self-paced online courses give you even more control over your learning experience. There are minimal deadlines and schedules so you can move quickly through any material that comes easier to you.

Most courses, traditional or otherwise, are built on layered learning—you have to have a good understanding of the material to build on it as you move through the course. If you struggle with a topic or concept, you can take the time you need to ensure you truly grasp it before moving on to the next section.

Essentially, you can leverage your learning strengths and abilities to get the best experience possible.

You’ll need to have time management skills

Staying organized and managing your time effectively are crucial to your success with self-paced learning. Though you won’t be held to strict deadlines weekly, if you’re prone to procrastination, you may not finish your courses in a reasonable time frame.

One of the struggles of attending self-paced college is that other things will always pop up—work obligations, family events, disruptions with children—and pull your attention. It can be easy to push off your coursework each day if you don’t manage your time effectively.

At the same time, one of the greatest advantages of self-paced learning is that these courses offer flexibility. You can learn at your convenience and work through the lectures and material when it’s best for you, not a set time that you have to meet for an in-person lecture. If you’re a morning person or prefer to take care of your coursework at night, self-paced learning can adapt to your schedule.

Create a distraction-free environment

When the world had to abruptly shift to remote work, many people discovered unexpected distractions in their home lives. Kids at home, dogs barking, or people knocking on your door can be a big disruption to your focus while you’re trying to work—or learn.

Attending college at your own pace can be especially challenging if you don’t have a space you can turn into an at-home classroom with minimal distractions. It’s best to have a quiet room with a door where you can set up a desk, computer, and school supplies. If that’s not possible, you can set up a space in a quieter area of your home and ask everyone to respect your study time.

You’ll need to network

Networking is not limited to attending a traditional school. You can gain valuable networking opportunities with online learning, which can help you make connections to further your career. But like anything else, you only get out of it what you put in.

Many schools encourage networking by hosting virtual events or seminars. If you’re comfortable interacting online and can communicate effectively, you can make the most of these opportunities. It can also be helpful to create your own networking events by connecting with other students you’ve met through your coursework. By building on these established relationships, you can help each other meet more people and create opportunities for each other.

If you’re ready to explore self-paced learning, now is a great time to see what your options are. Many colleges and universities offer this option, and due to online learning’s popularity, avenues for this kind of learning will only increase in the years ahead.

Check out these other helpful resources:
Top 3 Things to Consider When Going Back to School While Working
For Veterans Reentering the Workforce, Online Education Can Help