• Unit 2: Goal Setting and Time Management

    Unit 2 delves into strategies and techniques for setting your goals and managing your time. You are guided to first define your goals, then assess your physical environment in the context of how it can affect your productivity. Finally, you identify how you use time in your daily life to fulfill commitments and achieve goals. New skills in setting goals and managing time can support your success in college.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • explain how time management plays a factor in goal setting, leading to short-term, medium-term, and long-term objectives;
      • explain how to effectively identify and achieve learning goals;
      • consider factors that might hinder goal achievement and possible ways to address these issues;
      • analyze the impact of your surroundings to foster an effective study environment and to eliminate distractions;
      • identify the four major time management styles and related success tips; and
      • evaluate techniques for creating an effective schedule and for prioritizing goals.

    • 2.1: Why It Matters: Goal Setting and Time Management

      • Why It Matters: Goal Setting and Time Management Page
        A structured, conscientious approach to decision-making and goal setting in college can lead to fulfillment and achievement. What are the key recommendations a college counselor might give you for finding your greatest enjoyment in studying?

    • 2.2: Defining Goals

      • Defining Goals Page

        There is no doubt that doing well in college is a sizable challenge, especially for first-year students, who run the greatest risk of dropping out. Do you feel confident that you can pursue your goals in a balanced, committed way? What will be your secret of success?

    • 2.3: Your Physical Environment

      • Your Physical Environment Page

        If a researcher asked you to identify your favorite place to study, what would you say? Does that environment pose any distractions? How can we become more productive with our time and energy?

    • 2.4: Your Use of Time

      • Your Use of Time Page

        To be successful in college, it is imperative to effectively manage your time. How do you currently manage your time? Do you have a good schedule? Do you procrastinate? How can you better prioritize your days?

    • 2.5: Putting It Together

      • Putting It Together: Goal Setting and Time Management Page

        The two areas most students struggle with when adjusting to college life are studying and managing time. These issues arise from trying to manage newfound freedoms in college and from misunderstanding expectations of college classes. Still, time can be on your side if you adopt key strategies. What are these strategies?