The document provides 10 tips for effective online learning: 1) Choose topics that provide useful takeaways; 2) Keep sessions short, around 1 hour maximum; 3) Choose times when you can focus best; 4) Find a quiet place to participate; 5) Ensure you have the proper equipment and know how to use it; 6) Focus without distractions; 7) Log on early to ask questions; 8) Get involved in sessions by asking questions; 9) Consider blending online with classroom learning; 10) Provide constructive feedback to help improve future sessions.

1. 10 Top Tips to Online Learning

2. Choose the right topic. As you’ll have a limited amount of time it’s vital that you ensure you learn something valuable. Look for sessions that will provide you with something to take away and use at the end of it – a tool or technique for example.

3. Keep it short and sweet. It’s harder to stay focussed when you’re learning online so make sure you learn in small chunks at a time. 1 hour is about right, 2 hours as a maximum.

4. When picking a session choose the right time of day. Take into account the time that you feel most able to concentrate and if you can do it outside of core hours that’s even better. That way you’ll still have your usual hours to get on with your day job.

5. Find a quiet place to take part. The beauty of online learning is that you can join in wherever you are but you need to make sure it’s the right environment. Somewhere quiet where you won’t be disturbed or disturb others is ideal.

6. Make sure you’ve got the right equipment and you know how to use it. Most providers will issue guidelines on what you’ll need to take part such as audio options, web browser and so on. Read it thoroughly before you log in.

7. Focus. Close down any other documents and programmes so that you can give the session your undivided attention. Remember that with some software programmes the trainer will know if you’re not fully engaged.

8. Log on a bit earlier than the start time. The trainer will be probably be logged on too so you may get the chance to ask questions before it starts. It will also give you time to get used to the features of the software being used.

9. Get involved in the session. You get out what you put in. So make the most of the options available – ask questions, take part in any practise, do the reading if provided and so on.

10. Consider making your online session part of something bigger like a blended solution. For example you could incorporate an online session with a classroom based course and independent study.

11. If asked to do evaluations after the event, give constructive feedback. This is still a relatively young method and your comments could help to make the learning even more effective in future.

12. Find out more about online courses and tips. Find out more on Bespoke Training and Managed Training Services on Thales Training and Consultancy