2 answers
Shea
Student
Gig Harbor, Washington
1
Question
Asked
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How do I stay on top of book work in an asynchronous program?
I'm an incoming Nursing Student and was accepted into a ABSN program. The program I am attending is asynchronous and relies heavily on the student to be self-motivated. I want to stay on top of the book work and even ahead if possible but I've never been in an asynchronous class before.
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2 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
2522
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Shea !
Since you will be studying to be a Nurse, I would not recommend taking an Asynchronous Nursing Program or any other of this type for a health care career. This needs to be done on site, with an instructor that is professional in the Nursing field. Especially if you are thinking that you wouldn't adapt to this format. But the health care careers are very important and should not be done independently. You'll be learning how to work on injured and ill patients and it's a very people oriented field of work. If there is a regular program you can take, I would re-direct you to take a Nursing program that will be better suited to the path for becoming a nurse. I also do not recommend an accelerated quick program or getting a Bachelors in Nursing very quick when your other Bachelors is not in nursing as implied by the ABSN program.
I apologize for redirecting you, but it's clear that you are wondering how you can manage this style of education. No one can really tell you exactly how to do it, though, and you need some frank advice for a most important career. I would advise changing to a college that offers a Nursing Program that is all on site, in person. I wouldn't suggest learning how to access and complete course materials, such as lectures, readings, and assignments, at your own pace and on your own schedule if it already is an issue for you. Perhaps some majors could be done this way, but for Nursing, the in-person, in-classroom with other students and a professor and equipment all the time is highly advised. Strive to make your nursing education the fullest it can be, with lots of supports and interaction on campus in a nursing department.
This isn't a path that you should jump into without structure or in person support, but if you can't or do not want to do an in person all the time path, than you will see how it goes with the asynchronous path which is short cut and quicker than the usual path. It'll be up to you to put yourself on a schedule and keep up with the rest of the classes. But if you do a regular path on campus, it may be more motivational for you plus having access to many supports on campus at the time you may need them.
This is something to think about, but the ultimate aim is to strive to learn and understand what you learn and get the best foundation for Nursing that you possibly can. Regardless of what you decide, I wish you all the best !
Since you will be studying to be a Nurse, I would not recommend taking an Asynchronous Nursing Program or any other of this type for a health care career. This needs to be done on site, with an instructor that is professional in the Nursing field. Especially if you are thinking that you wouldn't adapt to this format. But the health care careers are very important and should not be done independently. You'll be learning how to work on injured and ill patients and it's a very people oriented field of work. If there is a regular program you can take, I would re-direct you to take a Nursing program that will be better suited to the path for becoming a nurse. I also do not recommend an accelerated quick program or getting a Bachelors in Nursing very quick when your other Bachelors is not in nursing as implied by the ABSN program.
I apologize for redirecting you, but it's clear that you are wondering how you can manage this style of education. No one can really tell you exactly how to do it, though, and you need some frank advice for a most important career. I would advise changing to a college that offers a Nursing Program that is all on site, in person. I wouldn't suggest learning how to access and complete course materials, such as lectures, readings, and assignments, at your own pace and on your own schedule if it already is an issue for you. Perhaps some majors could be done this way, but for Nursing, the in-person, in-classroom with other students and a professor and equipment all the time is highly advised. Strive to make your nursing education the fullest it can be, with lots of supports and interaction on campus in a nursing department.
This isn't a path that you should jump into without structure or in person support, but if you can't or do not want to do an in person all the time path, than you will see how it goes with the asynchronous path which is short cut and quicker than the usual path. It'll be up to you to put yourself on a schedule and keep up with the rest of the classes. But if you do a regular path on campus, it may be more motivational for you plus having access to many supports on campus at the time you may need them.
This is something to think about, but the ultimate aim is to strive to learn and understand what you learn and get the best foundation for Nursing that you possibly can. Regardless of what you decide, I wish you all the best !
Susana Abena Appiah
MIDWIFE
67
Answers
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Susana Abena’s Answer
Hello Shea, thank you for the question.
Congratulations on your acceptance to the ABSN program! Asynchronous learning definitely requires strong self-discipline, but with the right strategies, you can stay on top and even get ahead. Below are some tips to help you manage your book work effectively:
1. Create a Study Schedule
Map out all your assignments, readings, and deadlines as soon as you get the syllabus.
Break down your study material into manageable daily chunks.
Set specific times each day dedicated to studying—treat it like a regular class.
2. Set Clear Goals
Each week, decide what chapters or topics you want to cover.
Aim to finish some material early so you have buffer time for review or unexpected tasks.
3. Use a Planner or Digital Tools
Use planners, calendars, or apps like Google Calendar, Notion, or Todoist to track your progress and deadlines.
Set reminders for upcoming assignments and exams.
4. Active Reading and Note-Taking
Don’t just passively read your textbooks. Take notes, highlight key points, and summarize what you’ve learned.
Use techniques like SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) to deepen comprehension.
5. Engage with the Material
If your program offers discussion boards or forums, participate actively. Teaching or discussing material helps reinforce learning.
Form or join online study groups for accountability and support.
6. Stay Consistent and Avoid Procrastination
The freedom of asynchronous classes can lead to procrastination. Stick to your schedule and don’t let tasks pile up.
If you miss a day, adjust your schedule but don’t skip catching up.
7. Set Up a Dedicated Study Space
Find a quiet, distraction-free spot where you can focus on your studies consistently.
8. Use Supplemental Resources
Consider videos, podcasts, or apps related to nursing to reinforce your textbook knowledge.
Resources like Khan Academy, YouTube nursing channels, or nursing forums can provide extra clarity.
9. Self-Care
Don’t forget to take breaks, sleep well, and exercise. A healthy body supports a sharp mind.
Finally,
Try to start your weekly reading as soon as possible after it’s released so you can pace yourself and have time to review difficult concepts before exams.
Congratulations on your acceptance to the ABSN program! Asynchronous learning definitely requires strong self-discipline, but with the right strategies, you can stay on top and even get ahead. Below are some tips to help you manage your book work effectively:
1. Create a Study Schedule
Map out all your assignments, readings, and deadlines as soon as you get the syllabus.
Break down your study material into manageable daily chunks.
Set specific times each day dedicated to studying—treat it like a regular class.
2. Set Clear Goals
Each week, decide what chapters or topics you want to cover.
Aim to finish some material early so you have buffer time for review or unexpected tasks.
3. Use a Planner or Digital Tools
Use planners, calendars, or apps like Google Calendar, Notion, or Todoist to track your progress and deadlines.
Set reminders for upcoming assignments and exams.
4. Active Reading and Note-Taking
Don’t just passively read your textbooks. Take notes, highlight key points, and summarize what you’ve learned.
Use techniques like SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) to deepen comprehension.
5. Engage with the Material
If your program offers discussion boards or forums, participate actively. Teaching or discussing material helps reinforce learning.
Form or join online study groups for accountability and support.
6. Stay Consistent and Avoid Procrastination
The freedom of asynchronous classes can lead to procrastination. Stick to your schedule and don’t let tasks pile up.
If you miss a day, adjust your schedule but don’t skip catching up.
7. Set Up a Dedicated Study Space
Find a quiet, distraction-free spot where you can focus on your studies consistently.
8. Use Supplemental Resources
Consider videos, podcasts, or apps related to nursing to reinforce your textbook knowledge.
Resources like Khan Academy, YouTube nursing channels, or nursing forums can provide extra clarity.
9. Self-Care
Don’t forget to take breaks, sleep well, and exercise. A healthy body supports a sharp mind.
Finally,
Try to start your weekly reading as soon as possible after it’s released so you can pace yourself and have time to review difficult concepts before exams.