Distance Learning Courses – Preparing Yourself
There are many benefits of completing an online learning course, and there has been a real rise in the popularity of distance learning over the past few years. It is a great flexible alternative to traditional studying, and allows you to fit your learning in around both your work and personal commitments. Distance learning means that you can study at your own pace, and in your own environment.
The one main difference between distance learning and traditional learning is the lack of structure. Whilst some people thrive on planning their own timetable, lots of us are so used to being led by a school teacher. With distance learning, managing your own progress can seem a bit scary. So here are a few things that you can do to help make the transition to distance learning a bit easier.
Getting Started
Preparation is always the key to success. Take the time to research the course in-depth so that you know exactly what you are letting yourself in for. Does the training provider include a number of recommended hours you should set aside to study each week? Is that going to fit in with your busy lifestyle? Whether you are looking for an Assessor Training course, Education and Training Qualifications, or an IQA Qualification, the course advisors at Brooks and Kirk are always on hand to help.
One thing to look at is the amount of support you will receive from the training provider. If this is the first time you have completed a distance learning course, you may benefit from regular contact with a tutor. Blended courses are also another option to look into. They consist of a hybrid of both distance learning and a face-to-face element. We have been delivering vocational training for well over 20 years now, and have found that blending learning is by far the best method.
Previous Qualifications
When conducting your research, you may find that for the role you are wanting to pursue, you do not need an accredited qualification. Experience alone may be sufficient. This is why it is important to spend time researching.
If you are looking to become an Assessor, you are usually required to complete the Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement. This will allow you to observe and assess learners in both their place of work, and in learning environments. However, in some qualification specifications, occupational competence may be enough in order for you to assess the qualification. It is at the discretion of the awarding body, so it would be a good idea to get in touch with the learning provider directly to find out their Assessor requirements.
Preparing For Home Studying
Once you have decided to embark upon a distance learning course it is a good idea to get a few things in order. Get yourself stocked up with stationery, notebooks, folders and anything else you think you might need. Just pretend it is like the start of the school year all over again! (Was anyone else a stationery hoarder, or was that just us?!).
Your workspace is also very important and optimising your work-from-home workspace is key.
There is nothing worse than trying to study with a desk full of clutter, children screaming in the background and a small desk that you can barely fit your computer on! To set up an ideal workspace try and have a dedicated room or area in the house where you go to study. This helps to create a work/life balance, and if you can shut the door to your study after an evening of learning even better!
During Your Studies
Using your time wisely is essential if you are trying to fit studying around a busy work and home life. Take the time to plan your week in advance, so you know exactly when you are going to be sitting in front of your computer working. This will help you to mentally focus and get you in the right headspace too.
When you are devising your schedule, block out small chunks of time for studying and mix this up with 30-minute breaks too. If you block out 4 hours of solid work it is very unlikely that you will be productive for that length of time. You need to keep your brain active and fresh – try going out for a quick walk during your breaks rather than burying your head in your phone.
We hope this has been useful for anyone who is considering taking up a distance learning course. Here at Brooks & Kirk, we have a range of different courses available, please give us a call on 01205 805 155 or drop us an email at training@brooksandkirk.co.uk to find out more.