Because distance learning is so different from traditional approaches to training and instruction, it is important to prepare to learn effectively in this environment. Listed below are a series of strategies that you can use to help develop your distance learning skills.
 
1. Use effective reading strategies
Because CMR Institute course materials are largely text-based, it is important for learners to be effective readers. A common, but not very effective, approach is called the "sponge technique." That is when you pick up the course text, start at the beginning and read passively until the end, hoping some information will soak in. This technique is not effective because, by the next day, you will probably only remember a small amount of what you read.
 
The SQ3R Reading Strategy is often taught in colleges and universities as an “active reading” technique. If implemented as described, you can more effectively gain and retain the salient points and concepts from your print-based course materials.
 
Before you read
 
Step 1- Survey
Do a short preview of the chapter you are about to read, as well as the specific learning objectives. Read the introduction, chapter headings, and summaries. You may want to divide the chapter into "chunks" that are easier to manage. 
 
Step 2- Question
Write down a list of questions that you would like answered from your reading. Some students turn chapter headings into questions. You can also add to your list of questions while you are reading if you do not understand a concept. 
 
While you read
 
Step 3- Read
Once you have previewed and organized the chapter, it is time to read. Remain actively involved by answering the questions from Step 2. Look for visual cues such as diagrams, charts, or graphic images that may add meaning and clarify course topics. Look for connections within the material and also attempt to link it to something you have previously learned.
 
Read each section of the chapter and then go back to take notes, underline, or highlight. You will be much more selective after you've read the section, and you won't end up with a yellow textbook. Always write down anything that you think is important. 
 
After you read
 
Step 4- Recite
Think about what you have read. Ask yourself the questions to see if you can recall the answers. Recalling the information now will increase the chances that you will remember it on the test. If there is anything you do not understand, write it down and call a CMR Student Advisor for assistance.
 
Step 5- Review
If you review within 24 hours of reading, it will move the information from short-term memory into long-term memory. Make an outline of the entire chapter. The outline will serve as a quick review so you don't need to go over everything again before the test. 
 
The SQ3R method has proven effective for helping students develop good reading skills. Using this active approach to reading will help you improve your ability to learn from CMR Institute course materials.
 
2. Pace yourself
It would benefit you to break your reading tasks into small, pre-determined chunks. For example, if you have 200 pages to read and have allocated five weeks to complete your course and take the exam, you will have to read about 40 pages a week to finish on time, and you can even break this down into 10 pages over 4 nights. Knowing you have 10 pages to read is much less daunting than 200. Make sure you build in time for re-reading and reviewing prior to the exam. 
 
3. Relate content to your job
As you read the course content, think of how the new information you are learning can be applied in the field to improve your performance. Analysis of the instruction in this manner will lead to deeper, more effective learning, as well as increase your motivation for continuing your efforts.
 
4. Limit distractions
The environment in which you study can have a strong impact on how well you can learn. If possible, establish a comfortable, quiet place to read and study - a place that will allow you to concentrate and focus solely on learning the course material.
 
5. Gain support from others
As you seek time to effectively learn your course material, it is important to let others (such as family members, friends, and co-workers) know of your study plans so that they can provide necessary support. Make them aware that you have designated time to engage in coursework in order to avoid any scheduling conflicts. The better your support system, the easier it will be to meet your goals as a learner.
 
The unique nature of distance learning requires a different study strategy than that of traditional brick-and-mortar classroom learning. By applying the five steps of the SQ3R study method within the five-step study strategy, you can more effectively retain and utilize the significant points and concepts from your course materials.