Tips for Studying Online
Studying outside a classroom takes a different kind of rhythm. Here's how to set yourself up to stay on track and get the most out of it.
Studying outside a classroom takes a different kind of rhythm. Here's how to set yourself up to stay on track and get the most out of it.
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This is key to online study.
Online learning can be a challenge because the motivation and discipline all must come from you.
One way to keep motivated is to remember why you started your qualification; what are you working towards?
Having your end goal in sight can help you keep on a steady path.
If you aren't feeling motivated...reach out to your Student Training Adviser and they can help you reclaim your interest in your studies.
As part of your induction process you will have been shown how to work with Webclass, our online learning portal.
While we designed it to be intuitive and easy to use, we want you to feel comfortable asking for help.
Before you jump into your course work, get comfortable with the key features of Webclass and about online study with ACCM, such as:
Navigating Webclass
Accessing course materials as well as additional learning materials we provide to enhance your learning journey
Types of Assessment Methods and Skills Checks you will complete as part of your course
Access to a computer, internet and software relevant to your course
How and when to contact ACCM College for help
Setting goals is a fantastic way to keep on track with your studies at ACCM College.
Having an overall goal is a great way to aim high, however breaking that big goal into smaller, more manageable goals can help put you on a good pathway to success.
It can also make that big goal seem more manageable and realistic!
In fact, you will notice that we designed our Subjects into manageable sections for a reason. These "bite sized" sections allow you to tackle one topic or aspect of the subject at a time.
Goals can be as simple as completing a set amount of sections, or completing a subject by a certain date.
To help with this, we have a weekly question goal that is worked out based on your qualification and the time remaining in your course.
If you stick to this weekly goal, you will reach your qualification! And that is what it's all about.
Setting SMART goals can be very effective to ensure the goals you set are measurable, realistic, and enable you to really see how far you've come!
S â Specific: who, what, where, when, why
M â Measurable: you can't improve what you don't measure
A â Achievable: it may be challenging, but it shouldn't be impossible
R â Relevant: closely connected to your objective
T â Timed: a completion date or timeframe holds you accountable and on track
It's also important to set up your study time to suit your needs. Create a study schedule that is regular and consistent, while taking into consideration your subject due dates and qualification end date.
It is important to know how many hours you need to dedicate to your study.
This all depends on two things. Firstly, the course you choose to enrol in and secondly... you!
The following is just a guide, but it should give you an idea of how many hours a week you will need to dedicate to your formal studies:
Certificate III - 3 to 4 hours each week
Certificate IV - 4 to 5 hours each week
Diploma - 4 to 5 hours each week
Here are some other important factors to consider:
Study Session Length
Would you prefer a bigger block of study time, or would it work better to break it up into smaller sessions? Remember it's a good idea to give yourself enough time to sit down, read through the learning materials to ensure you understand everything, and complete questions and activities without rushing.
Study Session Time
Think about what time of day would suit your study needs. Are you a morning person and focus better first thing in the morning? Or would the afternoon help you study more efficiently?
Type of Study
The way we study varies from person to person. Some people learn by reading materials then summarising it by writing things down, others learn by watching then doing. We have a range of learning materials that suit various learning styles. Finding out how you learn is paramount and will ensure you make the most out of your study sessions.
Where you study matters just as much as when. A consistent, distraction-free spot â even a small corner of a room â helps your brain switch into "study mode" faster each time you sit down.
If you can, keep this space just for study. It helps build a routine, and makes it easier to stay focused once you're there.
A simple calendar reminder or planning app can make a big difference in staying on top of due dates and weekly goals.
Whether it's a phone alarm, a wall calendar, or a digital planner, find a system that works for you and stick with it â it takes the mental load off remembering everything yourself.
Having all the right tools from the start is key to making study as easy as possible.
Make sure you have a reliable, high speed internet connection, a laptop, computer or tablet, access to the appropriate software needed for your qualification, and any stationery you require to help you with study.
Also consider any software programs you may need access to depending on your qualification, which may include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Xero, or MYOB.
Please remember that both the free trial versions of Xero and MYOB have expirations, so factor that into your work. We would hate to see you lose any of your work when the trial period runs out.
You should also consider setting up appropriate folders on your computer to safely save any Word or Excel documents needed for an assessment activity, and setting up an email folder for any correspondence you get from the College.
Your Student Training Adviser will support you as you progress throughout your course, and can guide you with study ideas to help set you up for success.
They can provide support via phone, email and video with:
Training and coaching support
Assessment revisions and clarifications
Applying your new skills on the job
Motivation and engagement
Please make the most of this support and reach out whenever you need any assistance and we'll help you.
It is also a great idea to know who you can go to in your workplace should you need help (especially if you are a Trainee or completing your qualification as part of your Employment).
Your Supervisor is a great place to start and has a significant role in your Traineeship success.
We have also created Supervisor Support Packs which will help your Supervisor know how to best support you through your studies, including suggestions on how you can use various workplace activities and tasks to help you demonstrate your on-the-job competence.
If there are any concerns or questions relating to how you apply the skills you have learned in the workplace, please give us a call.
It is super important to reflect on what you've learnt and your achievements throughout your study.
Every time you achieve a study goal â whether this is completing a certain section or subject â reward yourself with something meaningful to you.
It could be as simple as a chocolate, or a walk in the sun!
This will motivate you to keep going, especially during those times when you don't have much time to study.
Remember, we have built this course so you can do it in small steps...that eventually reach your goal.
ACCM is proactive about staying in touch with you.
As part of your enrolment onboarding, you will have received a lot of information and support from our Service One team.
You may also already have been introduced to your Student Adviser who will help you throughout your qualification, which means you know we will be reaching out to you!
You will continue to receive regular phone calls, emails and SMS to check your progress and offer help. If we see you falling behind we will even increase our efforts to contact you to ensure you are getting the help you need.
But we really want you to know it's not just okay to call or write to us... we really want you to!
You are studying online - not alone, and you will be supported every step of the way!