Recent studies show that the switch to online learning has had a negative impact on the overall attendance and academic performance of current students. Teachers were not prepared to manage a classroom remotely prior to the pandemic, and students are still learning the self-discipline it takes to thrive in a virtual class.
How can you still be successful when your professor is only accessible via Zoom and you’re stuck watching videos to learn new content? Here are 8 hacks to improve your online learning experience so that you can thrive while completing your coursework.
Create a Workspace
It’s important to separate your workspace from your living space so that your brain can start transitioning into a new task. Make sure that you have everything you need (computer, chargers, notes, snacks- all the essentials) so that you can stay in the zone.
1. Keep It Clean
A clean space reflects a clear mind. In order to maximize your level of productivity while working through online classes, make sure that your desk isn’t cluttered with crumpled papers or half-finished cups of coffee. It’s much more enjoyable to work in a tidy, stress-free environment.
2. Get Dressed
Who says that you can’t look your best when you’re studying from home? If you get ready for your virtual learning the same way you would get ready for an in-person class, you’ll feel more mentally prepared to work.
3. Minimize Distractions
In order to give all of your focus and attention to your online classes, it will require a little bit of sacrifice. This means turning off your phone, logging out of Netflix, and saying no to social invitations that would pull you away from valuable work time.
4. Take Breaks
If you work hard, you also need time to play hard. Take frequent breaks throughout your workday, but be sure that they don’t last longer than 10-15 minutes. That way, you can give your brain a bit of rest without transitioning to a new task completely.
5. Form Virtual Study Groups
Online learning can be hard without accountability. If you want to avoid being isolated in your coursework, involve yourself in virtual study groups that discuss the material outside of class. If there isn’t one available, you can email a few classmates and start one yourself!
6. Hire a Tutor
Sometimes you need more one-on-one time to grasp a difficult concept, and the content your online instructor offers just isn’t enough. Hiring a tutor can be a great way to bridge your gap of understanding without putting the rest of your class at risk of falling behind.
7. Reward Yourself
What small things motivate you? Whether your answer is a trip to your favorite restaurant or spending a few hours catching up with an old friend, find something feasible that you can reward yourself with at the end of your online school day.
