Tips to Master e-Learning for Your Degree from a University Abroad

Many African students are choosing to earn degrees from universities abroad through e-learning. This trend accelerated with the Covid-19 pandemic, which came with travel restrictions.

According to data from Universities UK International (UUKi), 56,140 of the 510,835 transnational education students studying for qualifications offered by UK universities were living in African countries.

While the norm was for international students to relocate to countries of study abroad, e-learning programs allow students to pursue global education without having to leave their home countries. E-learning has considerably reduced the cost of attaining a degree from world-class universities abroad.

But while e-learning has numerous benefits, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. While online students reported high levels of satisfaction in a QS UK International Student Survey, 65% of students surveyed said they prefer face-to-face learning. Only 23% said that they prefer e-learning.

Without the benefit of a normal face-to-face class setting, students reported that they found it more difficult to ask questions and interact with other students. Thanks to time differences, 55% of online international students reported having to attend live lectures at night—which could interfere with their sleep and normal schedule.

To overcome the challenges that come with e-learning, you have to keep yourself motivated. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to keep yourself motivate and help you master e-learning for your degree from a university abroad.

Create an Effective Study Plan

Creating an effective study plan is a crucial step to succeeding in e-learning for universities abroad. It can help you stay organized and on track with your studies. Here are some tips to create an effective study plan:

• Set realistic goals: Start by setting realistic goals for yourself. To do so, think about what you want to achieve with your studies and how much time you can dedicate to them.
• Break up your studies: Break up your studies into manageable chunks to help you stay focused and motivated. You may want to break up your studies into weekly or monthly goals.
• Establish a routine: The beauty of e-learning is flexibility. However, you need to establish a routine that helps you to crate time for your studies every day.
• Take breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks. Breaks can help you stay focused and energized. They can also help you avoid burnout.

With a well-crafted study plan, you can make sure you are staying on track and getting the most out of your e-learning experience.

Set Up a Designated Study Space

Creating a designated study space is a great way to stay focused and organized when studying for university courses abroad.

It doesn’t have to be a large space; even a corner of a room can be transformed into an effective area for studying. The most important thing is to make sure that your study area is quiet and away from distractions.

To make the most of your study space, make sure to have all the essentials including:

• A comfortable chair
• A desk
• Plenty of light (set up your desk next to a window, if possible)

To personalize your study nook, you can add a few items such as a picture of your friends or family, a plant, or a motivational quote.

Remember to keep your space free of distractions such as your phone or the TV. Ask your family members and guests to respect your study space and time.

Juggle Work and Study Effectively

Many students who take up online classes also have full-time or part-time jobs. If you’re working while studying online, it’s important to make sure that neither studies nor work is negatively affected by your busy schedule.

To pull off juggling work and study, start by picking a flexible program. You want a program that allows you to take classes and take exams at your own pace. A program that isn’t flexible is likely to conflict with your work projects and deadlines.

Make sure to inform your employer that you’re taking online classes. If the program advances your job skills and knowledge, most employers are happy to support you as it also adds value to their company.

Make the Most of Online Resources

With e-learning, students have access to a variety of online resources to help them succeed in their studies abroad. Taking advantage of these resources can be the difference between success and failure.

To make the most of online resources, start by familiarizing yourself with the course material and learning objectives. This will help you identify which resources are best suited for your needs.

The best online resources to help you master e-learning include:

• Online study groups
• Discussion boards
• Webinars
• Podcasts
• Articles
• Productivity apps
• Online tutoring services
• Online practice tests

By leveraging online resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of your course material and develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your studies.

Use Technology to Socialize with Other Students and Professors

Online education can leave you feeling disconnected from other students in your class and the professors. Unlike face-to-face learning, you won’t bump into students and lecturers as you stroll on the hallways.

You’ll have to make more concerted effort to connect with your peers and professors outside the classroom. Thankfully, technology can help you connect with other students and professors.

Here are a few online tools to help you stay connected:

• Video chat platforms like Skype, Zoom, and FaceTime: These platforms come in handy for hosting virtual study sessions, asking questions, and collaborating on projects.
• Professional networking platforms such as LinkedIn: Send LinkedIn connection requests to students and professors and make sure to regularly interact with them.
• Social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter: Use these social media platforms to connect with students and professors informally.
• Online discussion boards and virtual study groups: Use these platforms discuss topics related to your coursework.

By taking advantage of available technology, you can stay connected and build relationships with your peers and professors while studying online.

Overall, e-learning can be a great way for international students to earn degrees from universities abroad without having to leave their home countries.

With the right tools and strategies, international students can ensure that their e-learning experience is both successful and enjoyable.

By following the tips we’ve outlined, you’re fully equipped to get the most out of your e-learning experience. Ultimately, it’s up to you to take the initiative and make the most of the amazing opportunities that e-learning provides.