Some of the most common concerns include:
- Staying motivated
- Balancing responsibilities
- Feeling isolated
- Understanding how college credits transfer
But don’t worry – With the right strategies, you can overcome these challenges and make online learning work for you.
How To Balance Work and Life When Taking Online Classes
Balancing work and life with online learning feels overwhelming, but time management tools can make it a lot easier.
To prevent burnout and stress while enrolled in a course, incorporate the following:
- Calendars
- Planners
- Daily To Do lists
How To Stay Motivated
Without the classroom setting and physical materials in front of you, it can be difficult to find motivation to complete schoolwork.
To stay motivated, students should:
- Stick to a schedule
- Change learning environments
- Take mental breaks
How To Deal With Isolation
Online courses might feel lonely when you can only connect with your classmates virtually.
Online institutions, such as Portage Learning, have a Student Success team and real professors accessible to students when they need help.
It also prioritizes connection by creating opportunities for students to interact with another such as:
- Facebook groups
- WAVES
- Currents Conference
Other Concerns Students Might Face
Beyond time management and motivation, online students might encounter challenges related to technology and academic quality.
Here’s how each can be addressed:
- Technology issues: Check your internet connection, familiarize yourself with your learning platform, and keep a backup plan for technical problems, such as using another device or contacting technical support.
- Academic quality: Choose an accredited institution that offers courses with clear learning objectives and organized materials.








