Top Five Study Tips for Distance Learning

Choosing to retrain can be a difficult decision, particularly if you are considering on taking an AutoCAD distance learning course. For many of us once we are out of formal education or apprenticeships we loose the skills to self motivate and study. Distance learning can be particularly rewarding as you can fit your study around your schedule and existing work. On the other hand committing to a long distance course requires self motivation and discipline without the constant support of peers. As many people find this challenging here are our top five tips for a happy study/life balance.

[if !supportLists]1. [endif]Be Realistic.

We are in the era where we expect ourselves to squeeze every little ounce of life out of every single day, when in reality this can lead to you burning out. A work/study/life balance is important so be practical about how long it will take you to complete the course and realistically how many hours a week you can dedicate to it. You will get more out of your course by taking it at your own pace.

[if !supportLists]2. [endif]Set up a Calm and Productive Workspace

Self motivated learning, particularly if you are working from home, can end up with you becoming very easily distracted. Setting up a dedicated study space away from distractions like television and high traffic areas in the house will allow you to concentrate without being disturbed and ultimately make you more productive.

[if !supportLists]3. [endif]Set Yourself Deadlines

Deadlines are important in order for you to keep yourself on track. Be sensible when setting them and if you have achieved your deadline, fantastic, if not, set some time aside to self evaluate why you didn’t reach your goal and assess if you need to amend any future deadlines. Sharing your deadlines with your tutors will help to keep you both on track and accountable.

[if !supportLists]4. [endif]Don’t Procrastinate

American entrepreneur Victor Kiam famously said “procrastination is opportunities assassin”. When working remotely it can be very easy to procrastinate; extra ten minutes playing on social media, one more trip to the kitchen for a snack, i’ll just watch a little bit of TV…

Using a time tracking app is a really effective method of maximising your productivity and study time. These apps allow you to set your tasks and how long you want to spend on them then schedule in breaks at appropriate times. Certain studies have showed that a 90 minute work focus then a ten minute break optimises productivity.

[if !supportLists]5. [endif]The only stupid question is the one that you don’t ask.

It can be hard to get yourself back into classroom mode when you have been out of education/training for a while. You have to remember that you are learning a new skill and you are not going to understand everything first time. You have tutors on hand for help and support, so make the most of them by not being afraid to ask what you might consider a ‘stupid’ question.