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Online study

Is online study right for me?

We all learn in different ways, so online study isn’t necessarily the ideal option for everyone. Some people will prefer to attend actual lectures and benefit from face-to-face interaction. Others find that they work best at unconventional times of the day (or night) and so distance learning is more suitable for them.

Please consider the following points to help you decide if online study will work for you:

Online courses do offer flexibility, but this added benefit does also require a degree of self-discipline and motivation on your part. It can be all too easy to keep putting an assignment off, but the courses will have a basic structure that you and the other students will follow, enabling you to support each other as you study
The courses, in the main, are assessed by the submission of assignments, rather than by sitting exams. You will need to submit the assignments by the given deadlines so that everyone can be assessed together. You can decide when you work on these assignments but you have to ensure that you have planned your time so that you can complete the assignment by the given deadline
Most courses will require at least 10 to 15 hours of work each week (more with higher awards, such as a Masters degree), during term times (approximately 36 weeks a year). You will need to consider how this extra time could be accommodated in your weekly timetable. We recommend you chat to your family and friends to explain the commitment required and asses whether things need to be juggled to free up some time
It is worth considering where you will find it best to work. Do you have a quiet space somewhere you can make use of? Would it be better for you to work from your local library, or make use of BU facilities if you live locally?

Bournemouth University

Short courses & part-time / Is online study right for me?

Online study

Is online study right for me?