Motivation | Distance learner
YOUR CLASSROOM, YOUR WAY
Owning your education with distance learning
Distance Learning is convenient, flexible and a real alternative to attending college. It enables you to learn at a time and pace that is convenient to you, fitting your AAT study around work, life and family commitments. It is helpful if you have health issues that make travel difficult, if you need to keep working and earning while you study, and if you are looking for a more flexible way of gaining a valuable qualification that opens up a variety of exciting career options.
At a glance: Why Distance Learning works
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You have the ability to create a personalised learning environment
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You can learn at your own pace and set your own schedule
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You can study at a time and place that works for you
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You can continue to work and earn while gaining your qualification
How distance education is shaping the future
Online learning platforms are becoming increasingly sophisticated and distance learning degrees are now regarded as equal qualifications to in-person degrees. Employers understand that distance learning demands valuable skills including time management, self-discipline, and independent learning, all of which show your commitment and tenacity. These skills translate well into future careers and personal life and are extremely valuable in the office environment. Distance learning is a progressive and forward-thinking way to gain an education, and is highly inclusive, enabling people from different backgrounds and circumstances to benefit from the amazing career opportunities that an AAT qualification can open up.
Creating a personalised learning environment
AAT remote learning is now widely available with live streaming of lessons and tutorials and the ability to interact with your tutor and other students as though you were in a classroom. There are also full course materials, question and answer sessions, feedback, exam preparation sessions and pre-recorded lectures on each topic that you can pause and rewind while you are studying.
This means that you can study in the way that works best for you, using the different types of study materials that suit your style of learning. It can also be helpful if travelling to college is difficult for health, financial or family reasons.
“I suffered an injury almost 17 years ago which left me feeling like I was no longer part of the world, says Melanie Walker, AATQB, AAT Tutor & Administration Manager. “I can’t even explain how much I lost, physically, financially, mentally and emotionally. I had no idea what the next day, week or month would look like. Finding and studying AAT has literally changed everything and showed me that I can learn and achieve my goals and make a difference to my life as well as the lives of others.”
Setting your own schedule
Distance learning can help you start or continue with your studies when you have other commitments that you have to fit into your time. It enables you to study at your own pace and in your own time, without the obligation to attend specific classes at a physical location.
Joshua Wilson MAAT, AATQB, is Assistant Management Accountant at Veolia UK and the winner of the AAT Impact Award. Having suffered two family bereavements and with caring responsibilities for his younger brother, he achieved his AAT qualifications through self-study. He says studying at home meant he could work at his own pace, without the need to commute.
“It would always be a case of booking the next exam, doing a study plan and then working towards the deadline,” he explains. “That’s what kept me motivated.”
Choosing your unique study locations
If you work best studying on a balcony with a coffee or in a park under a tree, then distance learning enables you to find your study sweet spot.
Joshua Barlow, AATQB finance assistant, found studying in his bedroom too cramped and unproductive, so he studied at cafes, on trains and in parks, successfully gaining his AAT Level 3. He has also joined the National Trust and visits parks and properties to give him a break and provide inspiration in different locations during his studies.
“Recently I had a thought in my head during at work that I needed to go out to different places to benefit my wellbeing,” he explains to his LinkedIn followers. “So I decided to join the National Trust and go to some amazing places. I have been to Kingston Lacy and Lacock recently. I think going to explore different places is important to break up any stress you have going on.”
TOP TEN
Ten reasons to choose distance learning
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You can start your qualification whenever you want
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You can complete your qualification in a timescale that works for you
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You can study at a time that fits in with your life and responsibilities – this is helpful if you have other commitments or caring roles
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Course fees may be cheaper than in-person tuition
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You can study wherever works best for you
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There are no travel costs
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You can still achieve a qualification if you have health issues that make it difficult for you to attend college
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You get great, personalised support from your online tutors
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You can review and watch tutorial videos as often as you need
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You have a community of fellow students online with whom you can share study tips and ideas
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