5 Steps to Overcome Your Fear of Taking an Online Course

The fear of having to learn independently is very real and one that many of you can attest to when it comes to considering taking an online course in college. Much of this fear stems from online classes being perceived as difficult, tedious, and a sure pipeline to fail. 

However, it does not have to be this way, but it is totally understandable as to why this is the case. 

If you have been considering taking an online course in college, but have been too afraid to move forward with your decision, here are 5 steps to help you overcome your fear and finally enroll in that online course you've been considering. 

1. Free yourself of the mindset that it will be hard

Online classes have a big rep for being perceived as hard. Much of this misconception comes from students taking an online course for the first time and wounding up failing in the end or not doing so well. This ultimately results in students attributing their failure to the course being online and not due to any study deficits on their end. 

Yes, online classes can be "hard" but college is generally no smooth walk in the park. It takes hard work and dedication to make it work whether on campus or online. 

If you are considering taking an online course for the first time, approach it just as you would a traditional course—with the mindset that yes, it will have its challenges but it will not be impossible. 

2. Consider your strengths and weaknesses

Before moving forward with any decision, you should always consider your strengths and weaknesses, especially when deciding to take an online course in college. For example, maybe you're not the strongest when it comes to managing your time but you are really good at writing papers. 

You would probably be okay because excellent writing skills are paramount in online college classes—not just for writing papers but also for written communication as well. 

Let's say you're having trouble getting assignments in on time. Your strength of being a good writer will easily make up for this trouble as you will be able to email your professor and explain your situation in a clear and concise manner. 

Always keep in mind that for every weakness, there is always a strength to make up for it. 

Related: Pros and Cons of Taking Online College Classes 

3. Reach out and ask questions

Photo by Solen Feyissa from Pexels

As the cliche goes, "a closed mouth don't get fed." 

Often, when there is fear and uncertainty involving a decision, it is more so as a result of our lack of speaking up and asking questions. As we all know, college is not cheap so you want to ensure that you do your due diligence in every decision you make involving your academics. 

Simply reaching out and asking questions will ensure that you are more well-informed before moving forward and taking an online course. 

Pro-Tip: If available, check out your school's live class schedule and filter the results to online for whatever semester you are planning to enroll. Once you select the course you're considering, click the course name and see if the syllabus is available. 

If the syllabus isn't detailed enough or not available, find the professor's name and send them an email, detailing your interest and concerns regarding the course. 

4. Know that you will have support

One major mistake I made at the beginning of my journey in taking online courses was feeling that I didn't have many options as far as support was concerned. However, this was not true at all. 

In online courses, there are plenty of ways to gain support on your journey whether that be communicating with your classmates and professors, taking advantage of your school's virtual tutoring service, or simply reaching out to your academic counselor/advisor. 

Depending on your living situation, you will also have your family, friends, or roommates to support you along the way as well. Do not feel like you have to do it all alone—the support will be there. 

Related: 5 Positive Affirmations for Online College Students

5. Consider how the course will help you grow as an individual

With any new experience, there is always room to grow despite all the uncertainty. This is especially the case when taking an online course in college. 

When taking an online course, you will not only be growing in your knowledge of whatever subject you are studying but also when it comes to self-discipline and independence. 

Sure, it will probably seem hard at first, but like with most new ventures, the more you do it, the more comfortable and efficient you will become in your performance. Along the way, you will gradually find yourself growing and developing new skills that will stick with you beyond your studies. 

Giving yourself the opportunity to grow is always great! 

----

Deciding to take an online course is no easy decision to make, especially if fear is involved. However, it does not have to be this way. Before moving forward, you just need to do your research, understand your capabilities, and think about how the decision will affect you in the long run. You may be a little on the fence now, but later be fearlessly eager to jump the hurdle and dive in again. 

Hopefully, these steps were helpful. Happy studying! 

What steps did you take to overcome your fear of taking an online course? Sound off below (anonymous commenting available).

Cover Photo Credit: Andrea Piaquadio on Pexels