Distance Learning/Study Habits

renerian, BSN, RN · Sep 1, 2003

I got my BS/MS via distance while working full time with a passel of kids. I would go to the library sometimes, work in my room sometimes, never out where anyone would bug me. Sometimes I had to put earplugs in as I have a teenage drummer in the house. I just made sure I did something every day. I got through both programs in one year each.

Chip away at it a little each day,

renerian

Laurie888 · Sep 1, 2003

Have you checked with the Excelsior list for students near you? I was quite surprised, especially being a little out in the country, to actually find someone locally and several more within 45 minutes that I could form real-time study groups with if desired. We haven't done it yet but have talked about it some. Other than that, my best tip would be to study just before sleep, when retention is higher.

jnette, ASN, EMT-I · Sep 1, 2003

Don't feel bad... it took me three years to get through the Excelsior program (that was including nearly all the prereqs).

I worked full time, too. I would just study every chance I had.. LITERALLY every free moment away from work. Put my entire life on hold, and did nothing but.

I did virtually no socializing... just buckled down and hit the books every day after work and on my days off.

I'm a slow study.. I like to digest (even ruminate) what I'm learning... if I don't really GET it, I'll never remember it. So I was a "triple underliner", highlighter, and then notes on top of notes kind of studier. But I did it, and that's what counts. I refused to hurry myself... I figured I had waited this long in life, whatwas the rush NOW?

I just did one course at a time... took me an average of 6 weeks per course. I'm not one to study well with a buddy... too distracting and time consuming.. I do far better on my own and staying focused. But whatever works for you.. don't be discouraged... you'll get there ! :)

renerian, BSN, RN · Sep 1, 2003

Good point Jnette. I had no social life for two years. I was okay with that though.

renerian

kimz · Sep 1, 2003

Thanks everyone

I guess once in a while, I need to know others were in the same position I'm in. I also need to have faith in my ability to achieve the much wanted RN degree. I know that if I put an honest effort in working hard that my goals/dreams will come true. Thanks once again for all the support and encouragement!!!!

Kim

renerian, BSN, RN · Sep 2, 2003

Kim your welcome. If I can do it anyone can.

renerian

CaliforniaRN · Sep 2, 2003

Hi Kim- I was taken by your plea for tips on studying with a Distance Learning program. You are right. Distance learning can be challenging. No question about it. I have been a distance learner since 1998, and I am still learning. I was, however, dismayed that you had tried a traditional 4 year program and did not find it met your needs. You also mentioned Excelsior also. I am not familiar with this program. Is it one of those programs which is not located at an institution but instead a supplier of textbooks for classes which you complete, take the exam, and when you are ready for college credit you have the company send your grades to an institution of your choice to obtain credit for your classes? I only know of one other fellow nurse who went from LVN to RN (Associate Degree) using that type of program. In California where I practice, the BRN recently made a decision not to recognize that particular avenue for a nursing degree. I hope that is not your case.

I would like to share a few things with you as a fellow distance learner. First of all, distance learning is the future for education, and without it many of us would not be able to complete our education because of family obligations and the need to work full time. With distance learning you must set your study schedule and never waiver from it unless it is an emergency or you must juggle your schedule to meet your needs to accommodate other classes or assignments. Your family must know and understand your goals and be able to support you when you need to be alone to study.

One question I asked myself when I embarked on my DL adventure is what type of education I wanted and what kind of support did I think I would need in order to reach my goal. I am already an ADN, and I wanted to finish my BSN. I tried several DL programs and was not very successful. So, I took a break and really put some time into researching the different DL programs. I needed a program that would allow me to network with other students, give me access to my professors, would challenge me to think outside the box, and support my need to continue to work full time and support my family. After considerable time and discussion with various outreach coordinators from various universities and colleges around the country, I actually settled on an institution 60 miles from my home. What I liked about this program was that all my classes were online with only 1-2 visits to campus per semester. I would not have to pay for airline tickets out of state for 1-2 weeks per year for residencies at a cost of about $4000.00 for tuition, transportation. lodging, food, etc. Another point was that my professors do not have hundreds of students to keep track of. I have full access to the university library from my home so that I can complete all my research online, I have email access as well as bulletin board access to all my fellow students and my professors at all times. I study online on my own schedule. I have due dates for all my assignments which makes organizing my workload much easier. Almost all of my assignments are submitted electronically. I still need books to study from, so I usually pick those up at the beginning of the semester during my 1 or 2 days of required campus time. I've met most of my classmates, and we have worked together on projects and papers with most if not all our communication done online. Quite challenging, but certainly do-able. We've all learned how to use our computer as an important tool to complete assignments and do research.

You did not mention whether or not you are already a RN or if you have another degree in another field. As you know, if you are already a RN there are many options and programs for you to choose from. It is important for you to take your time to choose. Education is costly, and certainly you would want to pick the program in which you have the best chance to succeed. If you have another degree, I would urge you to check with your state Board of Registered Nursing to determine if your particular program is acceptable to your BRN and will allow you to sit for boards. Coming from another profession has special circumstances, and it would be wise to choose a program made specifically for those coming from another field. If your current program is through a university, I would be concerned if you are expressing the feelings of being alone with no one with whom to network. That is not a good sign for either a new RN student coming from another profession or even an experienced RN who is going for an advanced degree.

I suggest a thorough evaluation of what your goals are, what you can reasonably do with studies and working full time, and what DL program can really prepare you for the complexities of a successful nursing career. You will be spending a large sum of money on your education, and certainly you want a program which provides you the best support as a distance learner. I welcome your comments and questions on what I have shared with you. As a RN and a nursing student myself, and a nurse who spends a great deal of personal time recruiting high school seniors into nursing, I have a pretty good idea of what it takes to work full time and go to school and continue to love nursing. One thing I cannot do without is lots of support! Good luck!

pixiel · Sep 3, 2003

It may sound werid but I always try to stay ahead. I mean if I have a paper due the 15th I try to complete it by the 10th. Something like that. I rearrange due dates so I do not wait until the last minute and if I have a computer problem, I have a bit of time to correct it. I guess that sounds stupid but I have taken many and it works well! Most of the ones usually give you assignments so that you can work a week or so ahead. The key is not to fall behind!!!!!!!!!! it can be so easy with on-line! Good luck!

CaliforniaRN · Sep 3, 2003

pixiel- It does not sound weird to try to stay ahead on your assignments if you are in a DL program. I certainy do that myself. And it's really paid off when I've had large assignments that require more time because of research and other demands. Your point about computer problems is not lost on me by any means! Last semester I ran home during work to spend 3 hours at the computer for my final exam only to discover that the website was down. I could not take my exam. I immediately notified the nursing office on campus and I was able to get another 24 hours to complete the exam. It sounds like you have some good strategies for organizing your studies and being prepared for unexpected glitches in technology. Distance learners are independent and creative. They also become very skilled at seeking out different methods of doing research. I enjoy the postings on our BB done by my fellow classmates. Since many of us are very experienced nurses from all specialties we are able to offer each other advice and also do a bang up job of consulting on issues in our areas of interest. Thanks for sharing your tips, pixiel!