Five Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Online Learning Adventure
While travel may not always be possible, if you have a passion for lifelong learning and a reliable Internet connection, Road Scholar At Home offers exciting ways to explore the world. Our online campus is designed to help you dive into the places and topics you’ve always wanted to learn about, with unique experiences tailored to adult learners.
We’ve developed options to appeal to every interest and timeframe. Our Adventures Online offer multi-day immersions into some of the world’s most fascinating places and discussions with other lifelong learners that re-create the Road Scholar experience online. Our Online Lectures let you enjoy 60-minute, expert-led presentations on a variety of subjects, each complete with a Q&A session.
If you’re wondering what to expect, or you’ve enrolled in your first online program and want to prepare, here are five tips for making the most out of your educational experience!
Tip #1: Embrace a New Format
An online learning adventure may feel different from a classroom or a trip abroad, but it can still be immensely rewarding! If you’ve selected a multi-day Adventures Online program, you’ll explore new destinations with online field trips to iconic landmarks, led by your Road Scholar expert instructor. Plus, you’ll have opportunities to connect with other Road Scholars and build a sense of community, even online.
For Online Lectures, you’ll enjoy the format more like a webinar — you’ll get to sit back and absorb insights from passionate experts, with time for Q&A at the end.
Tip #2: Dedicate the Time
Just as you’d reserve time for a trip or a class, consider setting aside dedicated time for your online program. Though you’re at home, you’ll enjoy it more if you eliminate distractions like phone calls or interruptions. You might even put a sign on your door: “Do Not Disturb — I’m exploring Athens!” or “I’m learning photography — see you in an hour!”
Please note that multi-day programs are not recorded.
Tip #3: Prepare for Class
For a multi-day Adventures Online, any materials you’ll need for your program will be accessible through your account on the Road Scholar website. Additional materials in participant accounts for multi-day programs are “Handouts” created by the instructors to supplement the lectures and content provided during the program as well as a reading list. You can also help support Road Scholar by purchasing any of your suggested reading through our online bookstore.
For Online Lectures, keep a notebook handy to jot down ideas or questions, which you can follow up on afterward. In either case, reviewing your materials beforehand helps you make the most of your program!
Tip #4: Stay Engaged
Participation is key to getting the most out of an online program. In Adventures Online, feel free to raise your hand or submit questions in the chat box. Engaging daily with the same group fosters bonds that make these programs meaningful.
Our Online Lectures are recorded and available for two weeks post-session, so you can revisit topics or rewatch highlights. You can submit questions through the Q&A feature during the live lecture, though time limits may not allow every question to be answered.
Tip #5: Ask For Help
Technology can feel daunting, but we’re here to make it simple! We’ve provided resources and links here on our website to help you get comfortable with Zoom. Both Adventures Online and Online Lectures are supported by live tech support, and our staff is ready to assist you if you encounter any access issues.
Interested in sampling one (or more) of our online learning adventures? You can find them all here.