Stay Motivated

Staying motivated in your online course begins with selecting the right course, knowing how to use the technology and conduct library research, communicating well online, and managing your time. It's easier to stay motivated when you've set yourself up for success.

These additional strategies can boost your motivation throughout the semester.

Connect with what you learn

Look for opportunities to apply what you're learning in your online course to your work, your other courses, or your personal interests - and to bring those experiences into your course. It make the content more interesting to you, and you are more likely to have a deeper understanding of the material.

Build a support system

Find people who will help you stay motivated throughout the semester, and let them know that you might come to them for support.

For example, look for an experienced online learner who can offer you advice and support. Find a peer to study with, or form a study group. An obligation to another person (such as discussing the weekly reading or reviewing each others' papers) can be very motivating.

Stay connected with your professor

Your professor can be a source of motivation. Who knows better how the material that you're learning relates to your long-term goals? Discuss your goals and interests in the field with your professor and bring outside sources to your conversation (such as professional publications that relate to course material). Share stories about how what you're learning in class has helped you at work or given you additional insight into the material in other classes.