5 Tips to Being a Better Student

As entrepreneurs, we are all looking for new ideas and ways of staying current. I enjoy taking classes to learn something new and meet others in my industry. Recently, it has become easier than ever to take a class because the classroom can be just a click away. Platforms like Zoom, Teachable, or Master Class have created whole new avenues of learning for students. 

Usually at the end of most classes the instructor asks the students to fill out an evaluation form or take an email survey about the class. But have we ever thought about evaluating ourselves as a student? Speaking as someone who has been both the student and the teacher, evaluating ourselves is a challenging task. It takes more than just being on time to be a good student. Here are five tips that have helped me get the most from my classroom experience whither in person or online:

1. Register for a class as soon as you know you are interested in attending. The class may be full if you wait until the last minute, or the class could even be cancelled because not enough students registered.
2. Read the class description thoroughly. Know the skill level required. If a “previously offered class attendance” is a prerequisite for attending this class, do not sign up unless you have had the class. Do not sign up for an advanced class if you are just a beginner. The instructor will have to spend extra time helping you with knowledge or skills that you should have already. This will be frustrating to other students, the instructor, but most of all to you.
3. Arrive or log in early. I try to arrive 15 minutes early and be prepared with the necessary supplies. If the supply list includes specialty items, make sure you know how to use them before class.
4. Silence your cellphone. Keep conversations with neighboring students to a minimum when attending a class in person. Pay attention to the teacher. Afterall, you did pay for the class. Ask appropriate questions but do not monopolize the teacher’s time. A good teacher will try to spend individual time with each student. 
5. Fill out the teacher evaluation form honestly. Be constructive in your evaluation about both the teacher and the handout material. The teacher’s handouts are copyright protected. Never copy them! The handouts are for your use only. Do not make copies of the class handouts to give to others. To do this is a violation of copyright law unless you have a written permission from the teacher.

Staying current on topics related to your home-based business is a wonderful way to help your business grow and stay alert to what’s trending. Next time you take a class remember these simple tips –  relax, learn, and have fun being a good student.