INTRODUCTION
Nowadays, online learning is no longer a new thing. At the age of modern technology, people should equip themselves with a variety of science to improve the quality of life. Online learning gives us the opportunity to learn while working. It gives us the flexibility to work and other routine life as usual. Online learning can involve a greater variety of equipment than online training or education, for as the name implies, "online" involves using the Internet or an Intranet. Online learning can be defined as “The delivery of a learning, training or education program by electronic means. E-learning involves the use of a computer or electronic device (e.g. a mobile phone) in some way to provide training, educational or learning material.” (Derek Stockley, 2003).
As we know, the online students is come from working groups and families. Apart from being a student, they also have responsibilities at work and at home.. Of course they will face various problems in achieving their ambitions. They must have good discipline and a strong spirit for success that they desire. Among the problems encountered by students in online distance learning is a time management. In addition, they do not know how to use modern technology like the computer to get information from the internet. Another problem they face is funding.
There are many other problems faced by students in online distance learning. However, in this task, I will discuss three issues above and how to resolve the issue.
(i)Time Management
Most of the Open and Distance learners have jobs and families. Time management is a major problem for online distance learning students. They have many commitments as most of them have a family. But they have no choice other than to study online distance learning to improve their living standards.
For a lot of married and working adults, online learning is the one opportunities for them to improve their life when they finish studies. The most important issue is, how to get quality time to learn more effectively? For example, some students have 2 hours a day to learn. But problems arise when they do not use that time to the best they can. This problem may exist because they have other commitments that need attention, such as family or job.
Developing a schedule that designates specific times to log in to and participate in class and to carry out other course-related activities such as reading and doing research promotes a student's success as an online learner. Students identified the most helpful time-management strategies as setting a schedule for study time (78.9 percent) and devoting time daily to the course (31.6 percent). (Alan R. Roper, 2007).
(ii)Using modern technology
Distance education learning is more to the concept of self-study. So, communication is very necessary to facilitate this process of learning. For example, by using a personal computer, students can find additional information by using the searching method on the internet.In this case, if the student does not know how to use a personal computer connected to the internet, they would not be able to seek additional information through the internet.
For online learning education system, the computer is an option to bridge the separation that exists among students and students with their lecturer. So if students do not know how to use computers, they will not be able to communicate with friends or lecturers. This will cause the failure of the aspirations of students in achieving their success.
Aside from that, the failure of modern technology to also affect the smooth operation of students to continue learning. For example, in the event of internet or e-mail communication disorders. Students unable to communicate with other peers or lecturers. In contrast to normal learning, students attend classes to learn or discuss. So in the event of failure of Internet communication, of course, the student fails to plan or prepare assignments or studying online. In addition, tutors also need to know how to use their experience to use with modern computer technology.
Representative of the ICT literacy skills are the following six arenas critical to students' success in the workplace (Kay and Honey, 2005):
• Communicate Effectively: Students must have a range of skills to express themselves not only through paper and pencil, but also audio, video, animation, design software as well as a host of new environments (e-mail, Web sites, message boards, blogs, streaming media, etc.).
• Analyze and Interpret Data: Students must have the ability to crunch, compare, and choose among the glut of data now available Web-based and other electronic formats.
• Understand Computational Modeling: Students must posses an understanding of the power, limitations, and underlying assumptions of various data representation systems, such as computational models and simulations, which are increasingly driving a wide-range of disciplines.
• Manage and Prioritize Tasks: Students must be able to mange the multi-tasking, selection, and prioritizing across technology applications that allow them to move fluidly among teams, assignments and communities of practice.
• Engage in Problem Solving: Students must have an understanding of how to apply what they know and can do to new situations.
• Ensure Security and Safety: Students must know and use strategies to acknowledge, identify, and negotiate 21st century risks.
(iii)Financial resources
As we know, in making any employment, activities or studies, costs will play an important role. For online learning education system, there is no doubt that students need a high-cost payments. They pay between RM1500 to RM2000 for every semester.
For example, Open University Malaysia students. All students need about rm6000 every year just to pay their tuition fees. This cost does not include transport, food and drink as well as stationery and computer come with internet facility. This cost is a burden to them because the salary offered is not only used for learning but also for other needs such as families, daily necessities and others. There are banks that provide loans for education, but they charge high interest rates.
SUGGESTIONS.
Below, I will list some suggestions that may be considered in solving the above problems.
(i)Time Management Aspects.
Students must arrange the time to learn to divide the time between family, work and other daily tasks. In this context, family support is very important. So students will be able to devote full attention when not interrupted by a family member or other appointments. Time must be controlled to ensure that they have quality time for learning.
For example, if the student provides for 2 hours for studying or completing assignments, they should use the maximum possible time without any interruption. “Planning, focus and organization are critical components of the online learning process. Success in online learning is dependent upon effective time management skills.” (Krista Tannahill, 2009). Students should plan their time
well, they need to list all tasks, jobs, appointments and time to study into the diary. This enables all planned activities run smoothly and systematically.
Adult learners face this mathematical challenge: There are 168 hours in a week. Between 40 to 50 of those are usually spent working. Another 45 to 50 are for sleeping. Now, figure in eating, commuting, family time and more. You don’t need a calculator to see that adult learners have many time demands. However, millions are pursuing degrees online right now – and you can, too.
Table 1 below are 10 time-management tips to help you succeed as an online learner. (Online Learning Tips Staff, 2010)
Table 1.
1 Find a calendar system that works. Some prefer mobile devices. Others use built-in computer software and even the old standbys, paper calendars. The method is less important than the style that works for you. Choose a calendar or project management system that is reliable and easy to update. Then, populate it with every detail and deadline you need to keep yourself on track, including course deadlines, family and social obligations and more.
2 Keep your class syllabus close. Online learning requires self-discipline – and a good road map. The class syllabus is the road map that typically lists all the course readings, assignments and deadlines. Students refer to it throughout the course to make sure they are heading the right direction.
3 Create your perfect study space. Your computer, room lighting, broadband connection, even your chair — all are key to an environment for studying and learning. There’s no need to spend a bundle at an office supply store. Just pay attention to what interrupts your focus. Then, change or eliminate it.
4 Leverage university resources. Online universities have many experts for students. APU, for example, offers research librarians, tutoring services and even support re: navigating the online classroom portal. A quick call or e-mail may save you time and frustration.
5 Eliminate social distractions. We are bombarded today with rings, beeps and pop-ups. Consider turning off your phone and logging off of social networks during study time. Even that brief look at a friend’s text message or status update interrupts your thought processes (suggest linking this to the top 10 ways to avoid interruptions article) and slows you down.
6 Try some tricks. It takes some effort to keep the commitment and focus up, especially after a long day at work. A few tricks can provide a boost. For example, set a timer for 30 minutes or an hour – and don’t stop reading until it goes off. Post a dream job offer in your study space to help you remember your goal. Have energy-boosting snacks nearby, such as nuts, crunchy veggies or a healthy smoothie. Give yourself 10 minutes of a favorite activity to give your brain a rest.
7 Take a break from multi-tasking. One APU professor’s secret to a long career of accomplishments: He doesn’t multi-task. He has distractions like the rest of us. He has just learned how to stop, attend to another task, and then pick up where he left off. See if that technique works for you.
8 Reward yourself. Just the fact that you are taking courses is a tremendous accomplishment. Reward yourself along the way. Celebrate a well-written paper with a special dinner. Take the scenic route home to refresh yourself. Have coffee with a friend. Go to a movie.
9 Turn to classmates for support. If you’re stuck on an assignment or facing writer’s block on that research paper, turn to a fellow classmate. Her insight may help spur you on – and help you avoid wasted time.
10 Recognize when it’s not working. Despite your best efforts, every night won’t be record-setting in terms of pages read, or words written. Sometimes the best choice is to stop – for an hour or for the night. Remember, earning a degree is a journey toward your goals and self-discovery. Enjoy it.
(ii)Modern Technology Aspects.
The role of university is very important to provide assistance to students who are weak in terms of modern technology, especially computers and the internet. Among the measures that the university need to do is implement the "study skills workshop" dedicated to students who are weak in the use of computers. In addition, students also must have self-awareness in depth knowledge of computers and the Internet, such as email and forums to enable them to continue with online learning sessions more efficiently.
Students also need to spend more to buy a more sophisticated computer equipment that they are not bothered by the weakness of Internet access such as email. As we know, if the computer is too old, it will cause many problems. it will certainly cause problems for many students when to use them.
(iii)Financial Resources Aspects.
In terms of financial problems, the government plays a vital role in helping students online. Financial resources are loans in the form of scholarships or educational loans with low interest rates so that students can learn comfortably.
There is no doubt, other institutions such as banks also provide loans to these students. But most of them to lend at high interest rates resulting in increased student debt and financial burden. It also requires the attention of the government in order to control or move the motion to institutions so that banks charge lower interest rates to students who are studying online.
CONCLUSION.
Online learning is very different from traditional learning. Students must have a strong will to continue learning until the end. Every student should understand that while they have obligations to family and work, they also are a student. So they should divide the time wisely between the three of them to bear this task. Every success does not come as easily obtained. Particularly the success of online learning students in dire need of effort, discipline and family support.
Students must be more responsible and have a focused view towards learning. They must also learn to improve themselves in areas they are lacking such as computer skills because not all skills will be taught by the tutor or smart learning workshop by university.
Time constraints, lack of interaction with peers and tutors as a result of lack of knowledge of computers and the internet, out of money and so can be solved with the cooperation of various parties. The most important things is they need to motivate their own self by setting achievable goals and have a positive attitude.
All this will result in failure for the students to achieve their ambitions. Failure experienced by these students will make them less motivated to pursue their careers. In addition, the government will suffer a shortage of skilled and experienced people. Indirectly affect the productivity and national development.
REFERENCES
Margaret Honey, (2005). Critical Issue: Using Technology to Improve Student Achievement . Retrieved on 25 February 2011 from http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te800.htm#issue.
Alan R. Roper, (2007). How Students Develop Online Learning Skills. Retrieved on 25 February 2011 from http://www.educause.edu/EDUCAUSE+Quarterly/EDUCAUSEQuarterlyMagazineVolum/HowStudentsDevelopOnlineLearni/157435
Krista Tannahill, (2009). Managing Time is the Key to Successful Distance Education. Retrieved on 26 February 2011 from http://www.suite101.com/content/time-management-tips-for-online-learning-a145224
Derek Stockley, (2003). What is E-learning? Retrieved on 26 February 2011 from http://derekstockley.com.au/elearning-definition.html
Dr. Kamal Kishore Jain, (2002). Motivating E-Learners. Retrieved on 03 Mac 2011 from http://www.studentaffairs.com/ejournal/Fall_2002/motivatingelearners.html
Helene Geiger, (2005). 10 Tips for E-Learners. Retrieved on 03 Mac 2011 from http://www.ptrain.com/articles/10tipselearn.htm
Online Learning Tips Staff, (2010). Retrieved on 03 Mac 2011 from http://onlinelearningtips.com/2010/03/08/top-10-time-management-tips-for-online-students/
As we know, the online students is come from working groups and families. Apart from being a student, they also have responsibilities at work and at home.. Of course they will face various problems in achieving their ambitions. They must have good discipline and a strong spirit for success that they desire. Among the problems encountered by students in online distance learning is a time management. In addition, they do not know how to use modern technology like the computer to get information from the internet. Another problem they face is funding.
There are many other problems faced by students in online distance learning. However, in this task, I will discuss three issues above and how to resolve the issue.
(i)Time Management
Most of the Open and Distance learners have jobs and families. Time management is a major problem for online distance learning students. They have many commitments as most of them have a family. But they have no choice other than to study online distance learning to improve their living standards.
For a lot of married and working adults, online learning is the one opportunities for them to improve their life when they finish studies. The most important issue is, how to get quality time to learn more effectively? For example, some students have 2 hours a day to learn. But problems arise when they do not use that time to the best they can. This problem may exist because they have other commitments that need attention, such as family or job.
Developing a schedule that designates specific times to log in to and participate in class and to carry out other course-related activities such as reading and doing research promotes a student's success as an online learner. Students identified the most helpful time-management strategies as setting a schedule for study time (78.9 percent) and devoting time daily to the course (31.6 percent). (Alan R. Roper, 2007).
(ii)Using modern technology
Distance education learning is more to the concept of self-study. So, communication is very necessary to facilitate this process of learning. For example, by using a personal computer, students can find additional information by using the searching method on the internet.In this case, if the student does not know how to use a personal computer connected to the internet, they would not be able to seek additional information through the internet.
For online learning education system, the computer is an option to bridge the separation that exists among students and students with their lecturer. So if students do not know how to use computers, they will not be able to communicate with friends or lecturers. This will cause the failure of the aspirations of students in achieving their success.
Aside from that, the failure of modern technology to also affect the smooth operation of students to continue learning. For example, in the event of internet or e-mail communication disorders. Students unable to communicate with other peers or lecturers. In contrast to normal learning, students attend classes to learn or discuss. So in the event of failure of Internet communication, of course, the student fails to plan or prepare assignments or studying online. In addition, tutors also need to know how to use their experience to use with modern computer technology.
Representative of the ICT literacy skills are the following six arenas critical to students' success in the workplace (Kay and Honey, 2005):
• Communicate Effectively: Students must have a range of skills to express themselves not only through paper and pencil, but also audio, video, animation, design software as well as a host of new environments (e-mail, Web sites, message boards, blogs, streaming media, etc.).
• Analyze and Interpret Data: Students must have the ability to crunch, compare, and choose among the glut of data now available Web-based and other electronic formats.
• Understand Computational Modeling: Students must posses an understanding of the power, limitations, and underlying assumptions of various data representation systems, such as computational models and simulations, which are increasingly driving a wide-range of disciplines.
• Manage and Prioritize Tasks: Students must be able to mange the multi-tasking, selection, and prioritizing across technology applications that allow them to move fluidly among teams, assignments and communities of practice.
• Engage in Problem Solving: Students must have an understanding of how to apply what they know and can do to new situations.
• Ensure Security and Safety: Students must know and use strategies to acknowledge, identify, and negotiate 21st century risks.
(iii)Financial resources
As we know, in making any employment, activities or studies, costs will play an important role. For online learning education system, there is no doubt that students need a high-cost payments. They pay between RM1500 to RM2000 for every semester.
For example, Open University Malaysia students. All students need about rm6000 every year just to pay their tuition fees. This cost does not include transport, food and drink as well as stationery and computer come with internet facility. This cost is a burden to them because the salary offered is not only used for learning but also for other needs such as families, daily necessities and others. There are banks that provide loans for education, but they charge high interest rates.
SUGGESTIONS.
Below, I will list some suggestions that may be considered in solving the above problems.
(i)Time Management Aspects.
Students must arrange the time to learn to divide the time between family, work and other daily tasks. In this context, family support is very important. So students will be able to devote full attention when not interrupted by a family member or other appointments. Time must be controlled to ensure that they have quality time for learning.
For example, if the student provides for 2 hours for studying or completing assignments, they should use the maximum possible time without any interruption. “Planning, focus and organization are critical components of the online learning process. Success in online learning is dependent upon effective time management skills.” (Krista Tannahill, 2009). Students should plan their time
well, they need to list all tasks, jobs, appointments and time to study into the diary. This enables all planned activities run smoothly and systematically.
Adult learners face this mathematical challenge: There are 168 hours in a week. Between 40 to 50 of those are usually spent working. Another 45 to 50 are for sleeping. Now, figure in eating, commuting, family time and more. You don’t need a calculator to see that adult learners have many time demands. However, millions are pursuing degrees online right now – and you can, too.
Table 1 below are 10 time-management tips to help you succeed as an online learner. (Online Learning Tips Staff, 2010)
Table 1.
1 Find a calendar system that works. Some prefer mobile devices. Others use built-in computer software and even the old standbys, paper calendars. The method is less important than the style that works for you. Choose a calendar or project management system that is reliable and easy to update. Then, populate it with every detail and deadline you need to keep yourself on track, including course deadlines, family and social obligations and more.
2 Keep your class syllabus close. Online learning requires self-discipline – and a good road map. The class syllabus is the road map that typically lists all the course readings, assignments and deadlines. Students refer to it throughout the course to make sure they are heading the right direction.
3 Create your perfect study space. Your computer, room lighting, broadband connection, even your chair — all are key to an environment for studying and learning. There’s no need to spend a bundle at an office supply store. Just pay attention to what interrupts your focus. Then, change or eliminate it.
4 Leverage university resources. Online universities have many experts for students. APU, for example, offers research librarians, tutoring services and even support re: navigating the online classroom portal. A quick call or e-mail may save you time and frustration.
5 Eliminate social distractions. We are bombarded today with rings, beeps and pop-ups. Consider turning off your phone and logging off of social networks during study time. Even that brief look at a friend’s text message or status update interrupts your thought processes (suggest linking this to the top 10 ways to avoid interruptions article) and slows you down.
6 Try some tricks. It takes some effort to keep the commitment and focus up, especially after a long day at work. A few tricks can provide a boost. For example, set a timer for 30 minutes or an hour – and don’t stop reading until it goes off. Post a dream job offer in your study space to help you remember your goal. Have energy-boosting snacks nearby, such as nuts, crunchy veggies or a healthy smoothie. Give yourself 10 minutes of a favorite activity to give your brain a rest.
7 Take a break from multi-tasking. One APU professor’s secret to a long career of accomplishments: He doesn’t multi-task. He has distractions like the rest of us. He has just learned how to stop, attend to another task, and then pick up where he left off. See if that technique works for you.
8 Reward yourself. Just the fact that you are taking courses is a tremendous accomplishment. Reward yourself along the way. Celebrate a well-written paper with a special dinner. Take the scenic route home to refresh yourself. Have coffee with a friend. Go to a movie.
9 Turn to classmates for support. If you’re stuck on an assignment or facing writer’s block on that research paper, turn to a fellow classmate. Her insight may help spur you on – and help you avoid wasted time.
10 Recognize when it’s not working. Despite your best efforts, every night won’t be record-setting in terms of pages read, or words written. Sometimes the best choice is to stop – for an hour or for the night. Remember, earning a degree is a journey toward your goals and self-discovery. Enjoy it.
(ii)Modern Technology Aspects.
The role of university is very important to provide assistance to students who are weak in terms of modern technology, especially computers and the internet. Among the measures that the university need to do is implement the "study skills workshop" dedicated to students who are weak in the use of computers. In addition, students also must have self-awareness in depth knowledge of computers and the Internet, such as email and forums to enable them to continue with online learning sessions more efficiently.
Students also need to spend more to buy a more sophisticated computer equipment that they are not bothered by the weakness of Internet access such as email. As we know, if the computer is too old, it will cause many problems. it will certainly cause problems for many students when to use them.
(iii)Financial Resources Aspects.
In terms of financial problems, the government plays a vital role in helping students online. Financial resources are loans in the form of scholarships or educational loans with low interest rates so that students can learn comfortably.
There is no doubt, other institutions such as banks also provide loans to these students. But most of them to lend at high interest rates resulting in increased student debt and financial burden. It also requires the attention of the government in order to control or move the motion to institutions so that banks charge lower interest rates to students who are studying online.
CONCLUSION.
Online learning is very different from traditional learning. Students must have a strong will to continue learning until the end. Every student should understand that while they have obligations to family and work, they also are a student. So they should divide the time wisely between the three of them to bear this task. Every success does not come as easily obtained. Particularly the success of online learning students in dire need of effort, discipline and family support.
Students must be more responsible and have a focused view towards learning. They must also learn to improve themselves in areas they are lacking such as computer skills because not all skills will be taught by the tutor or smart learning workshop by university.
Time constraints, lack of interaction with peers and tutors as a result of lack of knowledge of computers and the internet, out of money and so can be solved with the cooperation of various parties. The most important things is they need to motivate their own self by setting achievable goals and have a positive attitude.
All this will result in failure for the students to achieve their ambitions. Failure experienced by these students will make them less motivated to pursue their careers. In addition, the government will suffer a shortage of skilled and experienced people. Indirectly affect the productivity and national development.
REFERENCES
Margaret Honey, (2005). Critical Issue: Using Technology to Improve Student Achievement . Retrieved on 25 February 2011 from http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te800.htm#issue.
Alan R. Roper, (2007). How Students Develop Online Learning Skills. Retrieved on 25 February 2011 from http://www.educause.edu/EDUCAUSE+Quarterly/EDUCAUSEQuarterlyMagazineVolum/HowStudentsDevelopOnlineLearni/157435
Krista Tannahill, (2009). Managing Time is the Key to Successful Distance Education. Retrieved on 26 February 2011 from http://www.suite101.com/content/time-management-tips-for-online-learning-a145224
Derek Stockley, (2003). What is E-learning? Retrieved on 26 February 2011 from http://derekstockley.com.au/elearning-definition.html
Dr. Kamal Kishore Jain, (2002). Motivating E-Learners. Retrieved on 03 Mac 2011 from http://www.studentaffairs.com/ejournal/Fall_2002/motivatingelearners.html
Helene Geiger, (2005). 10 Tips for E-Learners. Retrieved on 03 Mac 2011 from http://www.ptrain.com/articles/10tipselearn.htm
Online Learning Tips Staff, (2010). Retrieved on 03 Mac 2011 from http://onlinelearningtips.com/2010/03/08/top-10-time-management-tips-for-online-students/
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