Online Learning can often be a stressful, lonely and confusing time. Thank you to Cannons Creek Independent School’s Mrs Paddy Kew-Simpson (Head of Life Orientation) for these great tips.
While online learning is probably not most people’s first choice, but considering some of these tips can help you get the most out of your classes.
1. Prepare your study area
When you are transitioning from classroom-based learning to studying from home, it is important to have a dedicated space for your learning. This will help you settle in and get into the mindset of studying. Ensure all the important tools for study are kept there such as my headphones, hard drives, stationery and books. This helps get into the mindset of ‘showing up for work’ at home. Keep your study area tidy and organised.
2. Block out distractions
One of the biggest productivity killers when you’re transitioning to online study is distraction, and our homes tend to be filled with distractions. There’s social media, TV, internet, video streaming, games, YouTube, family, books, and the list goes on…
Blocking out distractions is much easier said than done, but there are some tips and applications that can help you. My first tip is to leave your phone on the other side of the room or in another room. The most important thing is to keep it out of arm’s reach and make it harder for you to procrastinate.
3. Track your progress in milestones, not minutes
When you’ve started up your study routine, it’s tempting to track your progress on the time you’ve spent at your desk, but this might not be the best way to track how you are going. Make sure you track your progress against your actual study goals as opposed to how long you spent re-reading the same paragraph over and over again. The easiest way is to set your goals before you start your study session. Look ahead to plan your assignment due dates. Think about what you want to accomplish in your study session and break it down into achievable milestones. Remember to keep your milestones realistic and achievable. Don’t give yourself too much to set yourself up for failure, and don’t give yourself too little that you are done in half the time. A good way to track your progress is on a to-do list. This can be on your desktop, Word document or using pen and paper. If you don’t achieve your milestones, don’t beat yourself up. You’ll learn how to better time or pace yourself with practice, and just make sure you give yourself enough time to accomplish those milestones in your next study session.
4. Participate as much as possible
Participation is crucial to success. In addition to showing your teacher that you’re engaged, active participation shows that you’re learning, and that you’re willing to put in the effort that’s required to be successful.
While education is often perceived by some as a passive process, participation turns it into an active process. Ask lots of questions. Engage during online lessons. Keep your video on. Seeing everyone on video will help you stay engaged.
Make the Most of Video / Zoom classes:
Stick to your teacher’s time schedule and homework just as you would in a normal school environment
This will prevent you from falling behind and feeling overwhelmed. Close distracting tabs and apps while you are watching video lectures. Yes, TikTok will be there after class, 😉 Continue to take notes as you would if you were in class in person.
5. Stay Organized
6. Avoid Multitasking
Now that learning has become much more self-directed, it is tempting to try to do too much at once (can you really listen to a lesson while scrolling through Instagram?). Keep in mind no one really does more than one task at a time, instead you are really just switching your attention back and forth between multiple tasks. It is less efficient and you are less likely to recall what you are learning.
7. Stay Connected
While we need to practice social distancing and self-isolate right now, connecting with family and friends virtually is more important than ever.
Here are a few ideas:
Schedule time with friends online and family. Talking with friends and family is really helpful when you’re stressed or nervous about something. Staying in touch with your classmates and family and friends will go a long way to help you feel connected take a break to have a laugh is so important.
8. Self-Care
Staying healthy requires getting enough sleep, nutrition and exercise.
Take regular breaks.
Making time to exercise.
Ensure healthy eating
Keep to a regular sleep schedule.
Set daily and weekly goals.
Make time to socialize, even if it’s virtually.