Your Guide to Online Learning Success this Summer

Published July 3, 2024

Summer is a time for relaxation and exploration, but it can also be a season of growth and learning. Imagine delving into new topics while exploring new lands and tasting new cuisines, or discovering a fresh perspective in familiar surroundings.

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Online learning provides a unique chance to expand your horizons without compromising your summer plans. From honing new skills to deepening your understanding of subjects that fascinate you, the convenience and accessibility of online courses empower you to transform any location into a dynamic learning environment. This summer, take advantage of the freedom to learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, and in your own space.

Whether you’re traveling the world or enjoying a staycation this summer, we have compiled our best tips to maximize your online learning experience this season: 

1. Schedule time to learn. 

The best way to find time to learn is by adding it to your calendar just like you would a meeting or an appointment. By scheduling a specific time in your day to learn a new skill or take an online course, you will be more likely to make consistent progress toward your learning and professional development goals. The time of day doesn’t matter, it’s having an intentional period of time scheduled consistently that is the difference between a finished course and a fleeting ambition.

2. Find a place to learn. 

Once you schedule the time, you’ll need to find a place. The great part about online learning is that your options are practically limitless, all you need is internet connection. You can set up in your regular office space, a local coffee shop or cafe, or a local library. If you’re looking for a way to learn while enjoying the season, grab your mobile hotspot and head out to your favorite park, camping spot, or your own backyard. Research has shown that fresh air and natural light can enhance your engagement and creativity.

3. Create experiences around the topics you're learning about. 

You can feel, smell, see, and hear what you’re learning, you don’t need to just read about it. Studying environmental science? Take a walk through a nearby nature reserve to see if you can draw any connections between real life and what you’re learning in your course. Learning about history? Visit historical sites and connect your studies to real-world locations. 

Alternatively, you can choose what to learn based on your summer itinerary! Visiting one of the world’s great cities? Consider taking CitiesX: The Past, Present and Future of Urban Life to understand how these places developed over time and operate today. Taking a trip to visit some of the United States’ famous historical locations or working on a campaign to get out the vote? We the People: Civic Engagement in a Constitutional Democracy can help give you insight on the political system that centers the power of the people under the Lincoln Monument.

4. Learn with a friend. 

Whether it’s a book club or a golf outing, almost everything's more fun with a friend (or two!). One way to increase your engagement and learning experience is to invite a friend to join you. Studies have shown friendships can positively impact academic performance, raise GPA, and offer crucial support systems in an academic setting.

Harvard Online makes taking a class with friends easier than ever. There’s no essay or time consuming application process all you need to do is choose a course that interests you and enroll.

If your friends remain unpersuaded, there’s plenty of community to be found. No matter where you are, you can access Harvard Online’s diverse range of courses. You can connect with fellow learners worldwide, share your outdoor study experiences, and gain new perspectives. Harvard Online is more than a space for online learning, it’s a space for online community.

5. Keep it low stakes.

If you’re new to online learning, feeling unsure, or on a budget this summer, that’s no problem! There are plenty of free and low cost online courses that are available to you on platforms like edX. We recommend starting with a topic that you’re excited about learning. We compiled a list of some of our most popular courses to help you get started.

6. Take five! Stay active and balanced. 

Numerous studies have shown that taking purposeful breaks helps to produce the best results. You can combine physical activity with intellectual pursuits. In fact, your academic performance may even improve with every hike, bike ride, or run. You can return to your studies feeling refreshed and energized!

Ready to give these tips a try and get started on your summer learning journey? Check out our summer course offerings and enroll today!