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How to Prepare for an Online Degree
Studying for an online degree, especially a master’s program such as a master of information, can be incredibly difficult, time-consuming, and expensive. However, if you do it right and prepare accordingly, you will have the chance to earn a great qualification, learn new skills, and build a brighter future for you and your family, while avoiding stress. Preparation is going to be exceptionally important to your success, so here are some great ways to prepare yourself and your family before you take on an online degree.
Speak to Your Family
Make sure your family is prepared for a change. Taking on a degree might mean you spend less time with them or have set times away. You might need your partner to oversee bedtimes or take the kids out for a day at the weekend. Let them know what you need from them.
Arrange Childcare
If your children are of a pre-school age, you might want to consider childcare, either a nursery or asking family and friends to help. While you can study once they’re in bed, this means you spend your whole day busy. It would be good to have at least a few hours once a week to study in the day.
Get a Routine in Place
Routine is always exceptionally important to a children’s development, but if you’re going to study for a degree, it will also help you immensely. So, start putting one in place now if you haven’t already.
Read
Get reading. Buy, borrow, or download any course books you need, as well as any extra background reading you want to do. Make sure you’ve got a good basic knowledge before you start. This will help you get into the habit of reading and setting aside time to work, as well as helping you academically.
Learn to Motivate Yourself
Whatever your background, you might find it hard to motivate yourself to study without a classroom and formal setting. Many people struggle with motivation and productivity when they work from home. Start setting yourself daily goals and reward your achievements. Get into the habit of writing lists and organizing your days.
Make Sure You Have Everything You Need
As well as books, you’ll need stationary, a computer which meets minimum requirements, and a good internet connection. You may need specific software, too. Check your course guide to find out exactly what you need. You might also want to get some apps to help make your studies easier, such as Evernote and Dropbox.
Create a Work Space
It’s a good idea to have a dedicated workspace when you work from home, preferably in a separate room. This makes it easier to leave work behind and switch off at the end of the day, as well as helping you to be more organized and productive when you are working. If possible, avoid working in your bedroom, as this can make it more difficult for you to get a great night’s sleep.
Courses like an online MLIS degree can lead to a bright future, full of exciting career prospects. Start organizing yourself now, and there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy your studies.
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