Overcoming Challenges In Distance Learning: Staying Motivated And Engaged

Learning online instead of in a classroom sounds like a convenient and affordable option - but it’s not without its drawbacks. In fact, many people find that they struggle to focus when learning on their lonesome, and can often feel isolated and unmotivated. If this sounds familiar, you don’t need to pack your pencil case and head off to class just yet - there are some things you can do to make distance learning work for you.



Think about the factors of on-site education that appeal to you and then start to blend these into your routine. This can be as simple as creating an attractive study space, however small or joining forums and groups that will allow you to reach out and connect with others who are going through the same thing.

Understanding the unique challenges of distance learning

When you start your online learning journey, there are likely to be a few bumps in the road whether that’s a dodgy wifi signal or a motivation and engagement slump. While these issues may be annoying, there’re not insurmountable and, in this section, we’re looking at some of these - and how to fix them:

Technical obstacles in a virtual environment

The thing about remote learning is that it requires not just tech but tech that works properly and consistently. Getting used to a virtual environment can be tough at the best of times but, when you add in connectivity problems or a dodgy device, it can be incredibly frustrating. Before starting your course, it’s a good idea to make sure, where possible, that you have a working device and that you have access to a decent internet connection to help you avoid delays.

How motivation and engagement can suffer

When studying in a classroom, you have the benefit of routine and structure as you know that you need to be at a certain place at a certain time. You don’t, of course, have this when studying online and many people worry that they lack the discipline to sit down and get the job done.



Without a routine, focus can wander and, before you know it, you’re doing the dishes or flicking through Netflix rather than working.

The emotional impact of learning remotely

Let’s take a look at the elephant in the room - loneliness. Working remotely means working on your own and lots of people find that they miss the social element of the classroom - whether that’s a quick chat with a fellow student or a coffee after class. This sense of isolation can sometimes cause a bit of a disconnect when you’re flying solo without engagement or feedback.

Practical strategies to stay motivated

So, we’ve had a look at some of the problems you may be facing; now let’s check out some solutions to get you back on track:

Setting realistic goals and milestones

Although you may be in your kitchen rather than the classroom, you can still give your learning some structure. Start by setting yourself some goals or targets, however small - and make them measurable. By breaking your work down into chunks it becomes more achievable and you’ll get that great feeling that comes with seeing actual progress. While some goals may be short-term such as finishing that module by the end of the week, you can also start to build bigger ones like earning a higher education diploma in Psychology. Don’t forget to celebrate your wins before moving onto the next task.

Creating a personalized learning space

OK, we get it - not everybody has the luxury of having an actual home office - but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a workspace. Carve out a spot in your home that’s dedicated to your learning; even if it’s just a corner of the kitchen and equip it with everything you need for your studies.

This will help to bring structure to your study (and, if you’ve got everything you need in your space, you won’t have any excuse to wander off mid-module!)

Celebrating small wins

It's easy to become disillusioned when there’s nobody to share your achievements with as recognition is essential to build massive momentum as you go along. We’ll let you into a secret - you’re learning in the living room, not Outer Mongolia. As we mentioned earlier, there are lots of forums and groups that will allow you to connect with people who are doing what you’re doing and these can be a really great tool for motivation as well as holding yourself to account.

Techniques for maintaining engagement

Building strong connections with peers and instructors

Often when learning online, you will have access to a tutor or student supporter and it’s a really good idea to try to build a relationship with him or her as well as other students via live interaction. As well as helping with a sense of isolation, this type of engagement will help you to maintain focus.

Participating actively in virtual discussions

Go on, admit it - you’re the one “taking part” in virtual discussions with your microphone and camera off. We’ve all done it, however, it doesn’t do you any good. By actively taking part, you can identify gaps in your knowledge as well as finding new ways to tackle a tricky topic.

Using interactive learning tools

When something is enjoyable, we engage more fully and so using games, quizzes and simulations attached to your studying can keep you laser focused. VR tools and interactive games are great as are platforms like Quizlet and Kahoot.

Developing resilience and a positive mindset

There will be times during your learning that you feel like giving up and this is perfectly normal - but don’t give in to it. Keep reminding yourself of your goal and learn to pivot or adapt when new challenges crop up.

Embracing flexibility and adaptability

Feeding on from our last point, you can turn challenges into positives by viewing them as teachable moments rather than problems. When you set out with the idea that it might not all be plain sailing - and that’s OK - you’ll develop a more flexible attitude and an ability to find solutions.

Balancing study and self-care

Your learning is important - but so is your wellbeing. However long you spend studying, make time for short breaks - even if that’s just going for a quick walk or putting the kettle on. Taking time out helps you to refresh and reset ready to get back to the books.

Seeking support when needed

No man (or woman) is an island - and seeking support is a superpower. If you get stuck, don’t be shy about asking your tutor or even a fellow student for help.  Chances are that they may need help one day, too!

Conclusion

If it wasn’t hard, everybody would be doing it, right? Distance learning can be tough but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Give your time and work structure and set realistic goals to keep yourself on track and always keep your end goal in sight.