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What Students Need To Know About Online Homeschooling

by Abby Parnell | Jul 27, 2015 | 3 min read

We all know that everyone learns differently. But, it’s really important in this day and age to include technology in your learning process. You’ll be using computers and technology at college, on the job, and in everyday life in more ways than you can count. That’s why online homeschooling courses are a great option that will help you prepare for the future and beat the boredom that you may feel in textbook classes. I found great success in online homeschooling, and I know you can to! Online homeschooling helps students to focus, provides great feedback, and allows you to make the most of your time! However, there are few things you should know before you make the switch to online homeschooling.

4 Things To Know Before Taking Online Homeschooling Classes

  1. Online homeschooling can open the door to distraction. Computers are great, really great! With just a few clicks you can uncover information on just about anything. However, they also provide easy access to social media like Facebook, Tumblr, Instagram, and Pinterest. And these are just a few of the websites that I get distracted on. It’s very easy to take a “break” from online homeschooling and find yourself an hour or so later wondering where the time went! If you choose to pursue online learning I recommend blocking social media sites because it is SO easy to get distracted and lose track of time using them. Make to also only allow yourself breaks after you’ve completed important items. For example, I set a goal to finish an online video and complete an assignment, then take a 10 minute break. Set a watch and, when the time’s up, get right back into doing school.
  2. Online learning requires focus and dedication. Have you ever been reading a textbook and 20 minutes later realize that you didn’t retain any of the information? It’s frustrating! Well online homeschooling can be the same way if you don’t give it your full attention. Don’t get tricked into thinking that online homeschooling will be easier because you don’t have to read as much; it requires just as much attention as textbook courses do! Just because your learning online doesn’t mean you won’t need to use the same methods you do to stay focused and engaged in other environments. Take notes in every class, set out a schedule and cross of each item you complete, and be sure to study your notes and for tests.
  3. Save your work! I’m ashamed to say that I have lost many files, online and on my computer, because I haven’t saved them right away. In fact, one time I lost a 10-page research paper that I was writing for a professor! The last thing that you want is to have to re-do your homework. Save as you write, don’t wait until the end, and make sure you understand exactly how to submit assignments and that you ask questions if you have any problems. And, if you don’t have an online program with live teachers to help you, you’re not getting the best of what online learning has to offer. Make sure to choose a program that has people to help you with your work along the way!
  4. Online homeschooling is challenging! I have heard many people say that online classes don’t promote real learning. Take it from me, that is NOT true. In fact, statistics show that online learners (especially homeschoolers) test higher on the SAT and the ACT.  If you’re ready for a change and a challenge, choose online homeschooling classes. But, be sure to choose the right ones! Not all online homeschooling is challenging. Make sure you program is accredited and has a great reputation so you can be sure you’re getting the best. Find out more about online homeschooling here.

Online homeschooling is a unique learning experience that’s radically different from the classroom. There are many benefits and many things to consider before switching to an online homeschooling program So make sure you know what’s best for you, set boundaries, and choose the right program before participating in online homeschooling.

Abby Parnell
Abby graduated from Bridgeway in 2014 and was one of the first students to participate in our dual enrollment program through DeSales University. She is currently studying to be a physician's assistant at Valparaiso University. Her hobbies include playing instruments, reading, and physical fitness.
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