Before you enroll to take classes through an online school,

check to make sure distance learning is really right for

you. While some people thrive on the independence and

freedom offered through such classes, others find

themselves regretting their decision and wishing they had

enrolled at a traditional school instead. Successful and happy distance learners have a few

characteristics in common. Do you?1. Successful distance learners do just as well, if not

better, without people looking over their shoulders. While

some people need teachers to keep them motivated and on-

task, distance learners are able to motivate themselves.

They realize that they will never be face-to-face with the

people who give them assignments and grade their work, but

they don? need others to encourage them. The most

successful students are self-motivated and set their own

goals. 2. Successful distance learners never (or at least rarely)

procrastinate. You?l rarely find them putting off

assignments or waiting until the last moment to write their

papers. These students enjoy the freedom of working at

their own pace and appreciate the ability to complete their

work in as much time as it takes them, instead of waiting

for an entire class. However, they understand that putting

off their work too often can end up adding months, if not

years, to their studies. 3. Successful distance learners have good reading

comprehension skills. While most people learn by listening

to lectures and taking notes, the majority of distance

learners are expected to master material through reading

alone. Although some distance learning courses offer video

recordings and audio clips, most programs require that

students understand a large amount of information that is

only available through written text. These students are

able to comprehend texts at the college level without the

direct guidance of a teacher. 4. Successful distance learners can resist constant

distractions. Whether it? the phone ringing off the hook,

the kids screaming in the kitchen, or the allure of the tv,

everyone faces distractions. Successful students know how

to filter out the constant disturbances that threaten their

progress. They feel comfortable turning down an invitation

or letting the machine pick up the phone when they know

there is work to be done. 5. Successful distance learners feel okay about missing the

social elements of traditional schools. Sure, they realize

that they?l miss out on a lot, but they?e convinced that

the independence is worth it. In place of classroom

discussion, they explore the issues with their peers

through email and message boards or discuss what they?e

learning with spouses or coworkers. If you have few of the qualities of these students, you may

want to reconsider applying to an online school. Remember

that online learning is not for everyone and, while it is

an excellent choice for some, others will always struggle

with learning independently. Daily updated blog of articles and news about e-learning

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Author:
Graham Johnson