What is the role of goal-setting in online learning success?

Goal-setting plays a crucial role in online learning success by motivating students to stay on course. When students establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, they create a clear roadmap for their learning journey. This clarity enhances their commitment and focus, as they can track their progress towards these goals and celebrate milestones along the way.

By having well-defined goals, students can avoid distractions and remain engaged with their coursework, which is particularly important in the often self-directed environment of online education. The motivation derived from working towards personal educational targets can lead to increased persistence, better time management, and improved overall performance, fostering a sense of achievement and satisfaction as they reach their objectives.