Before 2020, online learning was gaining popularity because of its flexibility. In the current landscape of a global pandemic, however, it has become a necessity. Students who are new to online learning will no doubt struggle to adjust, but with anything, experience is the key to learning. After a semester of online learning, I’ve observed some key things and learned some lessons:
Accountability
Online communication can muddle information in a way that in-person communication does not; for example, I find that deadlines set online by teachers are harder to remember. Also, you might feel less pressure to pay attention to online lectures because teachers don’t notice you slacking off in the way they would in a classroom.
To increase attentiveness, I started turning on my web camera during my Zoom classes. My focus became steadier in class as a result, because I didn’t want the instructor to see that I wasn’t paying attention.
To prevent your study habits from degrading, start holding yourself accountable. Keep a schedule; it shows more clearly when you meet or miss a deadline. Using a calendar app such as Google Calendar or Any.do removes the pressure of retaining important information all by yourself. Additionally, I set deadlines with my peers whenever I can (particularly in group projects) to create competition and motivate me to keep up with classmates.
Workspace
Space affects how we work. Working in a peaceful environment, with few or no distractions, creates a more focused work environment than places where interruptions and distractions are more common. Working in the wrong space is a problem that people often underestimate until they experience it themselves; for a long time, I worked exclusively in my bed rather than at my desk and wondered why I got work done at a snail’s pace.
My solution is to relocate your workspace, but I suggest that you also vary your workspace. Whether it’s the living room or the basement (I’ve used both), experiment with as many spaces as possible and see which one works best for you.
Different types of work require different spaces. For example, focus-heavy work requires complete silence, but creative work might require a different ambience and scenery. Switching locations can stimulate your mind and add some excitement to your work process.
Networking
Students often find online learning difficult because it removes many “normal” rituals that we’re used to. An example is networking with classmates, whether talking casually in or outside the classroom or meeting up to do group work. Although you can still communicate with classmates online, it requires more active engagement from both parties because common areas where you can engage in light conversation are no longer abundant.
To counteract this, I recommend taking extra steps when interacting with your classmates. For example, schedule group calls with some of your classmates where you engage in both casual and school-related conversation. Try to actively participate in conversations to satiate the social need that often gets neglected in online learning.
Technology
Finally, getting to know the technology is one of the easiest ways to reduce anxiety with online learning. Ask your instructors which video software or communication platform they will be using, then set up an account and make sure you know how to use it properly. Figure out how to send files before an assignment deadline.
If you’re unsure about anything, always voice your concerns to your instructor. For example, if you think your Internet might be spotty, ask your instructor to record online lectures just in case.
Adapting to online learning can be difficult, but can be conquered with diligence and creativity.
Ulysses Aganon is an English and Professional Writing student and an aspiring technical writer. He has worked as a technical writing intern for Ericsson Telecommunications Ltd. and is currently an intern for STC Canada West Coast. He lives in Mississauga, Ontario.