Remember that VIU has a whole set of resources for you on the Learning Matters site! Check out Learn how to Learn and Learning and Memory on the Learning Matters site for more videos, tips, and information.

Just like learning to play a sport or a musical instrument, learning to learn takes practice. Here are some skills you need to practice in order to be a successful online learner.

Being Self-Directed

That means you have to set goals, identify steps to get there, choose methods of addressing those steps, and reach out for help. It doesn’t mean you have to teach yourself, but it does mean you have to engage in your learning and practice checking your knowledge. Without a face-to-face classroom it is more difficult for the instructor to direct you. You will need to practice asking yourself what you need to be successful and getting help when you need it.

Take quiz to help you identify skills for self-directed learning from KPU university.

You can also read more about self-directed learning here: Identify Skills for Self-Directed Learning.

Need help setting a goal and making a plan? Check out the Time Management page on this website.

Thinking About Your Thinking

Part of being a self-directed learner is thinking about your thinking (also called “metacognition”). It isn’t just thinking about how you are learning right now, it is also about monitoring how well your strategies are working and evaluating your learning. This kind of deep thinking allows you to recognize what study strategies are working and which aren’t, and when to reach out for help.

Watch the video below to learn how to engage with this kind of thinking:

Video not loading? Click here to open it in a new window or tab: https://youtu.be/vmaneqx2_3Q

Check out Apply the Plan-Monitor-Evaluate Model for Assessing Your Learning Progress from KPU to read more information, get templates, and review guiding questions to help you think about your thinking.