Discipline ‘biggest obstacle to success’

Publish date	2008-04-07
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When it comes to studying, the solitary nature of taking a degree online requires discipline almost as much as academic capability. The importance of self-motivation has been highlighted by the recent report into online learning from The Sloan Foundation.

Academic leaders at more than 2,500 schools and colleges in the US said the single biggest barrier to success among online students was lack of discipline. Previous studies from the foundation have shown the same result.

Research by eLearners found that one of the most common misconceptions about studying remotely is that it requires less time and effort than a full-time course – so it’s perhaps unsurprising that many students enrol in online programmes with no real idea of what will be involved.

If you’re thinking of applying for a distance learning degree, you should be under no illusions as to the amount of work required. Graduates of online programmes commonly say they spent at least ten hours a week plus one full day every weekend on their studies. For those already in work who are taking a masters degree, the benchmark is three evenings plus one day at the weekend.

Setting aside the time to study is all very well. But how do you teach yourself to be disciplined – to use those hours as productively as possible?

Sarah Raad, a life coach (www.stepping-stonescoaching.co.uk), offers some advice.

She says: “Begin with the end in mind. Write a letter to yourself from the future as if you had already finished your course. Where are you now? What did the course give you? How did it feel when you passed? What’s possible for you now that you have the qualification and experience? Read the letter to motivate you at times when it seems too much to deal with.”

Raad also suggests breaking down workloads into several stages – spend time at the beginning of an assignment to think carefully about what’s involved, how much time is needed for each stage and what additional resources may be required.

She adds: “Get yourself a study buddy - either someone on the same course or another distance learner. Set goals with each other and have a weekly or fortnightly chat to keep each other on course. Having someone to share your worries with, vent your frustrations and celebrate your successes can make all the difference. Commit to being supportive, objective and positive towards each other.”

It’s also important to build in ‘down time’. People can only concentrate for so long and sitting for hours in front of your books or computer isn’t healthy or productive. For every 30 minutes working take 10 minutes to listen to music, get some fresh air or grab a drink.

Finally, rewarding good work is important. “Treat yourself to something as simple as a book that you’ve had your eye on, a trip to the cinema or even a coffee at your favourite café,” says Raad. “Even with your eye on the bigger picture it’s important to take time to acknowledge yourself for each step and the hard work put in.”

Keywords: discipline, academic capability, motivation.

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