Division of Academic Affairs

Correspondence Studies

302 ASB-North
601 University Drive
San Marcos, TX 78666-4616

Telephone: 512.245.2322
Toll Free: 800.511.8656
Fax: 512.245.8934

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Texas State > Division of Academic Affairs > Correspondence Studies > Students > Before You Enroll, Some Advice

Before You Enroll, Some Advice

Correspondence study can be liberating. Whether you move to a new location, work irregular hours, have family obligations, or find that you need to put your studies aside for a while, you can take a correspondence course wherever you are and whenever is convenient. This freedom is ideal for the student who needs an alternative to the traditional classroom. It’s important, however, to be aware that a correspondence course not only requires the same amount of work as courses offered on campus, but also presents unique challenges to students who are accustomed to classroom instruction. Here are some things to consider before enrolling.

Because correspondence study affords you the freedom to choose when to work on the course, you may find that procrastination prevents you from either starting or finishing your course. For this reason, don’t put off the first assignment. Jump right in and get started as soon as you enroll.

Good study habits are key to being successful in a correspondence study course. If you think your study habits need improvement, try the SQ3R Technique.

SCAN the study guide and reading assignments. Look at the study guide learning objectives as well as the textbook’s headings and summaries. Use them to make an outline to guide your study.

QUESTION what is to be learned. Then answer these questions as you read.

READ each assignment carefully. Answer the questions you asked yourself in the Q step. Highlight or underline to help you focus.

RECITE answers to questions after reading each section of the study guide and text.

REVEIW the outline you prepared in the S step.

Some Tips

Be resourceful in your approach to learning on your own. Remember, you’re responsible for keeping yourself motivated. Here are some tips to help you stay on track.

Develop a reasonable study plan and stick to it.
Do the assignments while the material is still fresh in your mind.
Take notes as you study, particularly with material you find difficult. You can refer to these notes when completing your assignments.
Don’t skip a planned study session. Once you develop a routine, it’s important not to break it.
Be assertive. If you don’t understand something, ask. You may not be in a classroom, but you do have an instructor who wants you to succeed. Your instructor is the single best resource for helping you to understand challenging material.
Form a study group. If you know someone who is taking the same course, study together. While your work must be your own, it helps to discuss the material and get feedback from someone else.
Make the material relevant to you. Read related articles, watch related TV programs, and discuss what you are learning with others.
If you find that you have a problem staying motivated, review your study skills. Decide what works and what doesn’t. Then, make the necessary changes in your study routine.
Remain positive. It is easy to get discouraged when you’re trying to learn something new. Remember all the resources available to you, and put them to use.