For adults who are furthering their education through independent study without the typical campus and classroom socialization, this may be perceived as a nearly impossible task. Nevertheless, being socially active can be an integral part of the learning process.

 

If you are studying by independent means, without a formal instructor and without being in a formal classroom, how does the transmission of the ideas and accumulated knowledge occur? Most of the information is communicated and learned one-dimensionally by reading and self-studying, but it doesn’t have to be that flat and boring. So much can be learned from other people!

 

As adult learners, working in the healthcare profession, you have the a basis of a some unifying relationship, because you share a similar goal in continuing your education to becoming registered nurses. Now you just need to find a way to connect with each other. Whether you post a bulletin at work announcing a study lunch hour, set up a Facebook profile, tweet to other adult learners or use an internet web forum, you can find several ways to communicate and share ideas! Imagine what you can learn from others across the nation with various life experiences but a unified goal.  

 

It doesn’t matter how you assemble, electronically or in person, what matters is that you engage others with common interests who are in the same pursuit to further their education.  You’ve heard that old adage; experience is the parent of wisdom. There is so much to be gained from interacting with others to learn, share experiences, motivate one another, gain wisdom and who knows, and maybe cultivate a lifelong friendship. Reach out, learn by way of others, and socialize as a part of your education experience!

 

Rue Education provides opportunities to become a socially active learner via online learning courses, Rue Education's Facebook and the Mentor Connection. To learn more, contact your academic advisor at 1-800-479-2805.

Jason Jonas began his educational journey with Rue Education and Innovative Academic Solutions in June 2009.  He started with the Life Span Developmental Psychology. A month after signing up, he ran into some conflicts with work and had to put his studies on hold for some time.   

Jason was studying independently, so putting his studies aside to focus on his work matters created no difficulties in his progress.  In January 2010 an Academic Adviser spoke with Jason and he was back to his studies and ready to tackle his first exam for Life Span Developmental Psychology. After speaking with Jason in April, he reported that he received a B on his Life Span Developmental Psychology exam! 

At the end of January, he ordered his next learning system, Microbiology. Jason was ready to tackle this learning system, but he was quite nervous about the Microbiology exam.  His Academic Adviser discussed with him how to use all of the great resources Rue has to offer learners.  He signed up for the Mentor Connection to utilize the student submitted study notes and to communicate with the Alumni members about the Microbiology exam.   

On December 3, Jason called in to report his score.  All of Jason’s hard work and preparation paid off – he scored an A on his Microbiology exam!  Jason said the most helpful tools to supplement the learning system were the Rue Mentor Connection™ study notes and the content outline guide from Excelsior College.  

Jason has now completed his required general education courses and is moving into the core nursing curriculum.  He is currently working on Health Safety and is looking forward to conquering his first nursing exam.  Rue and Innovative Academic Solutions look forward to seeing Jason progress through his educational journey.