ONLINE DEGREE

There is an old saying, “He who hesitates is lost.” Some consider this to be the true essence of procrastination.

But procrastination and online degree programs do not mix. They are like oil and water, never successfully blending. The distance learning student who suffers with a time management or procrastination problem will find a thorny path along the way to degree completion.

Do Not Despair

If you suffer from procrastination, do not despair — there is hope.  In the beginning of an online degree program, a majority of students find that they have not planned properly for assignment due dates. But after a few missteps in this area, it is possible to make some minor adjustments to stay on track:

• Thoroughly read the syllabus, or course requirement details.
• Place reading assignments, homework, and exam dates into a calendar (including a Palm Pilot, Blackberry, iPhone or other organizing device).  
• Work on assignments incrementally, a small portion at a time, by adding study times into the calendar up to just before the due date.
• Include enough time to absorb mishaps, like computer glitches.
• E-mail the professor as early as possible about any problems completing an assignment. Do not wait until the last minute.
• Never rely on cramming for an exam by staying up all night. Begin studying early so that the course information has a chance to simmer and settle into the memory banks over time.

You are Not Alone

According to USA Today, 26% of Americans consider themselves to be procrastinators; and according to additional sources, between 80% to 95% of all students procrastinate sometimes. Previous data linked perfectionism to procrastination; but recent studies conclude that distractions are to blame for most people putting things off until later.

Televisions and computers are the biggest culprits; and new technology, like iPhones, are expected to move to the top of the distraction list. E-mail, You Tube, and downloaded music are readily accessible from almost anywhere, making it more difficult to focus on tasks that may be viewed as less than fun – like homework.

But e-learning students must force themselves to complete their homework assignments before surfing the web, playing video games, or watching television. And they should study early in the day, if possible, rather than making it the lowest priority. Studying too late makes it more difficult to concentrate or remain awake.

You Can Do It

Transforming from a procrastinator may not be easy; but it is possible. By becoming aware of unnecessary habits that devour precious time, students can become efficient and diligent in their studies.

The act of focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel, rather than settling for the distracting sights and sounds surrounding them, assures e-learning students of the best chance to succceed — whether the goal is to earn an online associate’s, bachelor’s, doctoral degree or professional certificate.

So don’t let procrastination kill your dreams.  Beat it and receive your college degree! 

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