How to Study for Online Classes

Online students can work toward degrees from home through synchronous and asynchronous classes. Synchronous courses include set meeting times through technology, such as videoconferencing, while asynchronous classes allow students to access lectures and other course material at their convenience.

Distance programs often give students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Online learning also allows students to attend top programs in the country without relocating.

However, online learning presents challenges. Learners uncomfortable with technology may experience difficulty navigating online classrooms, posting on discussion forums, submitting assignments, and taking exams.

Coordinating meeting times with professors and peers may be difficult, particularly in asynchronous classes, and candidates may struggle with managing time and limiting distractions while studying. This page provides online class study tips to help learners overcome these and other challenges.

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 outbreak caused most colleges and universities in the U.S. to switch to all-online coursework. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, COVID-19 has altered learning for more than 90% of students internationally the past two years.

Online accounting classes are similar to on-campus courses, allowing students to communicate with professors, watch lectures, and submit assignments online. However, learners lacking access to technology may still struggle. With hybrid learning seemingly here to stay, we rounded up some tips and tricks for online accounting class help.

Taking Accounting Courses Online

Online college courses can challenge and educate students as much as in-person classes. However, the success of online learning depends largely on the student's commitment. The lack of supervision means degree-seekers need discipline and self-motivation when studying. Students may also need to reach out for assistance by contacting professors, advisors, or student services. For example, many schools offer online math tutoring that may help accounting students understand course content.

The following section offers help with accounting class online. These tips can help learners stay focused on coursework, build peer and mentoring relationships, and receive support when needed.

Online Accounting Classes Study Tips

Set Up a Workstation

To stay focused, learners can set up a workstation with all relevant supplies, such as a laptop, pens, notepad, textbooks, and calculator. This space can help candidates study online accounting by providing one location for learning, like a classroom. A workstation also makes studying for online classes more convenient, since degree-seekers do not need to leave the area to find materials.

Ask Questions

Studying accounting online involves technology that varies by program. It is okay to not be immediately familiar with your online accounting course's chosen hybrid learning software.Degree-seekers can contact professors or fellow students by email or forum posts, and schools usually provide additional support services that can answer technical questions. Learners can also contact their advisors for information on topics such as course selection, graduate school applications, and internships.

Manage Your Time

Online learners benefit from schedule flexibility, but without discipline, this freedom can lead to incomplete assignments and poor preparation for exams. Good time-management skills are critical for success. Learners should set aside the appropriate amount of time for each assignment, and use a check-off system to ensure they do not miss required work.

Virtually Network with Peers

You might be learning alone, but you are not truly alone. Use the virtual tools available to connect with classmates. Students can interact with one another through email, discussion posts, and virtual events. Learners can help each other understand course content and provide feedback on assignments. Some courses may require teamwork for projects.

Take Study Breaks

Study breaks are essential to preventing burnout. Students can take study breaks and re-energize through activities like exercise, family time, or television before refocusing on assignments. Learners should add these breaks into time management schedules to encourage strong academic performance.

Consider Using Noise-Canceling Headphones

Studying outside the classroom often comes with noisy distractions. For anyone who studies in a noisy space, noise-canceling headphones are a great option. They can block out distractions, helping learners concentrate on schoolwork. These headphones are particularly helpful for students completing work at coffee shops or other public places.

Additional Resources

Online Research Guide

Writing Guide