Making the Most of Independent Study Time During International Relations Courses

Independent study is a crucial component of online courses

Complementing structured class time, independent studying is a critical component to higher education. According to a 2016 study conducted by Higher Education Academy, independent learning tops direct course hours in cultivating key academic skills like writing and critical thinking.

Naturally, the importance of independent study is heightened for online or flexible degrees. While pursuing academic objectives on their own time, top online students need effective strategies to maximise the value of independent study. Keep reading to learn how to make the most of these precious hours while studying international relations.

Independent Study Means Structuring Your Free Time

Beyond subject expertise, online courses cultivate soft skills like time management - an essential component of academic and professional success. Studying independently means learning to structure your free hours, devoting your available time to a specific learning outcome.

While budgeting their time, many students prefer the Pomodoro method, so-named after the brand of kitchen timers. This method combines longer periods of sustained work - usually 25 minutes - with shorter, five-minute free periods of rest. Created in the 1980s, this method is now helping modern students self-motivate - and avoid the constant distraction of technology and social media.

Through the virtual support provided in leading online courses, students will have many contact hours with tutors, but independent studying is still crucial. While completing reading, written work or dissertation research during their international relations courses, students can establish priorities and budget time accordingly. Honing critical thinking and learning strategies, these sessions will yield good habits that translate into the workforce.

Independent studying helps students develop personalised work strategies

Students Should Track Their Progress During their International Relations Courses

Independent studying helps students assess personal progress. While setting aside autonomous learning time, students are more likely to spot problem areas or gaps in their knowledge - and know what questions to ask the next time they connect with their instructors. Students can also list their ideal learning outcomes while planning a study session.  With each completed task crossed off, these lists help develop subject-related confidence.

Independent study time also encourages greater personal investment in one's academic work. During a Masters Degree in International Relations, students can use this time to compile a list of personal course interests, earmarking their favourite subjects for future research. Whether they take the form of formal 'reflections' or quick personal summaries, these notes are a great way to find an engaging dissertation topic.

Independent study will help you discover where your greatest academic interests lie

Top Students Challenge Misconceptions About Independent Studying

Students enhance the academic experience by breaking through misconceptions about independent studying. Above all, independent study time does not have to be spent alone. Leading courses like those offered by QMUL Online offer students platforms to connect with peers outside designated course time, and to forge relationships that benefit academic performance. Group work is especially helpful in consolidating knowledge through mutual explanation and encouragement.

Another misconception concerns study spaces. While contemplating independent study time, prospective students often picture long hours in the library. Yet, students are encouraged to complete autonomous study in the most convenient places. Whereas some prefer the quiet of libraries, others work best at home, in cafes and even outdoors. The flexibility of online courses allow students to find the methods and spaces that suit them best, and pursue academic excellence on their own terms.

Are you looking to pursue flexible learning in international relations? Contact QMUL Online to learn more about our course!