So you’ve signed up for online caregiver training. You’ve taken the first step towards a fulfilling new career.
Online caregiver training can be a totally different game from training or taking classes in-person. While doing schoolwork from home with no commute can be very convenient, it also means you’re not surrounded by fellow students and instructors who can answer your questions and keep you on track.
Many students find the transition to online coursework difficult, but that doesn’t mean you can’t flourish. If you master these tips and tricks, you can have great success in online caregiver training.
Stick to a Routine
Most students taking a caregiver course online find it easier to stay disciplined when they develop a routine. As with anything in life, motivation is easier when you’re in the habit of doing what you need to do.
If you do your best work early in the morning, you may want to set your alarm earlier and put in a few hours before work. If you find it easier to concentrate at night when the kids are asleep, make a plan to complete your schoolwork then.
Whatever you do, don’t just try to fit in coursework when you feel like it. That’s a recipe for failure. Consistency is key to avoiding motivation challenges when you’re tired or having an “off” day and, ultimately, making it through your coursework.
Talk to Classmates and Instructors
In any course, it’s nearly inevitable you’ll have questions that are best answered by another person, whether that’s the instructor or a fellow student. While talking to the rest of an online class may not be as simple as raising your hand in an in-person class, it’s not impossible.
Most online courses allow you to reach out to other students and teachers using a variety of technical features, such as online discussion boards. As a bare minimum, you can always email your instructor. Don’t hesitate to reach out early, before you get behind or confused.
Find Ways to Stay Motivated
Self-motivation is vital for so many things in life, but never more than with online education and other types of work done from home. You won’t have instructors and classmates around to remind you to do your assignments. It’s up to you to make sure your projects get done properly.
Many people find it helpful to keep physical reminders of why they’re pursuing online education around their workstation. Even if it’s just a sticky note with a few words on your laptop screen, a small motivator can provide that little extra spark to keep you going.
Sunrise: An Online and In-Person Caregiver Training Center
Sunrise offers every course you will need to achieve and renew your Home Care Aide Certification (HCA-C). Our online course offerings include the 5-hour Orientation & Safety Training for new caregivers, Population Specific Training, and continuing education options. We can also help you specialize in mental health or dementia, train for nurse delegation responsibilities, learn CPR, and advance to becoming a nursing assistant (NAC).
Contact us today to learn more about online caregiver education and take the next step in your career.