Virtual learning certainly has its benefits. Whether you’re working a full-time job, juggling family and school, or all of the above, a virtual classroom offers access to various subjects. Learning how to become a computed tomography (CT) technologist doesn’t have to require a traditional classroom or live seminars. While virtual learning offers many the opportunity to gain certification they wouldn’t otherwise have access to, it can also present a number of challenges.
Students must be devoted to learning the material and setting aside the proper amount of time to make eLearning an efficient way to study for the CT Registry exam. Students are often faced with a number of challenges when they first begin an eLearning format, so we’re taking a look at some of the most common obstacles and how to overcome them to succeed at virtual learning.
Improper Expectations
Television ads from educational facilities that offer online learning present a scenario where students are seen lounging on the sofa, completing some work on the computer, and voila, a degree is achieved. This type of scenario causes students to set the wrong expectations of an online course. Many students don’t realize the time dedication it will take to become certified as a CT tech or earn another professional degree or certification.
As you explore different eLearning opportunities and decide which is best for you, keep in mind the time you’ll need to commit to the program to be successful. Consider the time you’ll dedicate to the webinars, reading, studying, and completing practice tests. Calculate where you’ll fit that time into your current schedule to ensure you have realistic expectations of the course.
Adaptability Challenge
For students who have just completed a traditional school setting, such as an undergraduate degree or earning your associate degree and certification to become a radiologic technologist, making the transition to an eLearning experience can be difficult. After sitting in classrooms and seeing the professor face-to-face, interacting with other students, and being able to ask questions and receive a direct response, online CT tech classes can be a challenging transition. Many students don’t think about a learning experience minus the social aspect. There’s a lot of solo class time and studying, something traditional students rarely experience.
If you are migrating from a traditional classroom experience to an eLearning environment, look for digital and real-life opportunities to connect with other students. A forum on the educational facility’s website or Facebook group are good options to ask questions, discuss topics, and engage with other students. If there’s an opportunity to take part in a live lecture, as with The Tuffest Stuff Registry Review Live Lecture Seminar, plan to take part and learn the material in a more traditional way.
Technical Connections
For students who do not have a high bandwidth or strong internet connection, it can be difficult to complete online CT tech classes or any other educational courses. Completing the work online means a reliable connection is necessary to participate in the classes, take quizzes and more. While you may consider using the internet connection at a local coffee shop or library, you need to think about your schedule and the hours you’ll complete most of your work. If you plan to work late at night, the business with a strong internet connection may not be open. Ensure you have a dependable internet connection and laptop available at all times before entering an online learning system.
Distractions
There are 1.6 billion websites available on the internet, so learning online comes with many inherent distractions. eLearning can be challenging specifically for those who struggle to keep their attention devoted to one thing. Completing online CT tech classes takes a great deal of self-discipline. Not only do you have access to social media, entertainment and other online sites, but you’re surrounded by other distractions in your home. The television, family, chores, and other gadgets can all lure you away from concentrating on your education.
To eliminate your distractions, turn off all notifications on your phone and computer. Try to schedule you’re learning at a time when you’re the only one home or others are asleep. Don’t have other websites pulled up in the background while you “listen” to the online lecture. Stay actively engaged by taking notes or jotting down questions about topics you want to revisit.
Time Management
Time management ties into many of the other challenges we’ve touched on, but it’s worth mentioning independently because of the time and intensive work required to successfully complete online CT tech classes and other courses. Everyday commitments can keep you from devoting the time needed to your eLearning experience. To overcome the obstacle of time management, begin to routinely plan your daily and weekly schedule. While unforeseen events will occur, you’re more likely to complete the online work if you’ve purposefully sketched out time throughout the week. Set reminders for yourself for upcoming tests or when work is due, so you don’t fall behind.
Self-Motivation
Every eLearning student has different reasons for pursuing an advanced education, degree, or certification. Self-motivation is an essential requirement for those enrolled in an online learning environment. One of the main reasons many students give up on an eLearning course is because they fall behind in the work. Stay motivated enough to envision your goal and continuously work toward it. Though the work is challenging, keep a positive attitude and look for help from your classmates through classroom portals or Facebook groups.
eLearning may present a number of challenges for students, but it’s also one of the most convenient, cost-effective ways to increase knowledge and advance your career. You must change your mindset from the traditional classroom, it’s natural social elements and a professor who can answer questions on demand, to an environment that requires your complete attention and time commitment.
The Tuffest Stuff is one of the most successful online CT tech courses available, with a first time pass rate of 94 percent for students who take the ARRT CT Registry Exam. If you’re not yet convinced online learning can lead you to become a CT Tech, schedule a call with the designer of The Tuffest Stuff.
