Study Skills – Social learning

Ah. Distance learning, isn't it perfect?

You can study when it suits you,

where it suits you,

and you can save money.

There's just one problem.

You can feel lonely.

Do you ever feel lonely?

It's ok: this isn't a dating video.

We're here to talk about education.

You see, learning well isn’t

just about you and a lesson,

it's about you, a lesson

and your student community!

In fact, many experts believe

we learn most effectively

when we interact with other learners.

Learning together in groups or pairs

can even improve your scores.

Let's say you've learned

some new information.

Discussing and sharing this info

means you process it again

and again, helping you form

long-term memories.

And by questioning all the angles,

you get a broader understanding

of your topic,

and you don't get stuck in your own head.

It means you have someone else

with whom you can complain,

debate,

celebrate,

compete

and

commiserate.

And if you're motivated

and engaged,

you're more likely to complete the course.

So, you need some study buddies.

But you're doing distance learning.

What can you do?

Here are some suggestions.

You can

join an online forum on the topic.

Maybe your course has a forum already.

Use it.

Or start a new one.

And maybe you're on a course with its

own page or group on social media.

If not, then, why not start one?

And you don't just

have to write

messages to your fellow students.

Try using software or apps

to talk to them,

or even do video calls.

And remember,

if you want to make the most

of these groups,

it's best to have some structure

and guidelines or rules for taking part.

All of these are informal ways

of staying in touch with other students,

but your course

might ask you to do formal tasks,

such as collaborating on a project.

In which case, your course will

probably provide or suggest online tools.

So try to use these tips to create

your own online study community,

so that you're not left out in the cold.