Online learning has become the only reliable form of learning, due to the rise of the global Covid-19 pandemic. The use of online programs is not a new concept to most of the world, but it is relatively new to us Lankans as we were so used to and comfortable with traditional, in-class, in-person learning. Therefore, this sudden switch to online learning may create challenges & obstacles for many students depending on various reasons. So here we have listed 7 effective, simple tips to help you get adjusted to online learning.
1: Get comfortable
In school, most likely you had an assigned seat in the class. Similarly, to make yourself more receptive to the online learning process, you need to have a dedicated study or learning space. This helps you to pay your utmost attention during a virtual class or session. Guarantee that the space is quiet and organized while been isolated from any distractions at your home.
2: Focus
Unlike in a classroom, there are no rules or regulations prohibiting distractions to the lesson in an online class. Such as the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices. After all, the tools used in online learning such as tablets, laptop and desktops, are the ones that can distract you the most. It could be movies, games, music and many more. So it is always better to keep your focus only on the lesson. One thing you can do for this is keeping your mobile phone away during the class. Keep it in a place not reachable until the class is over and that will keep you from using social media or other programmes during your online lesson.
3: Internet Connection
As the online classes are 100% dependent on the internet, you must ensure that your internet connection is adequate and reliable. Not meeting this connection stability is a huge problem that would not only interrupt your learning session but also greatly demotivate you from the lesson.
4: Communicate
Virtual learning experience may cause students to refrain from talking to the instructors. This will be a significant issue because if you have any doubts that need clarification, not communicating the doubts to your teacher can have a lethal effect on your learning abilities. Therefore, you must make it a practice to speak to your lecturers during the allocated times so that whatever misunderstandings you may have had during the lesson could be cleared. Communication is vital not only with instructors and teachers but also with your classmates. Because such communication can greatly help you get adjusted to this virtual platform of education.
5: Diligent Note-taking
Although online platforms and software that are used for online learning have recording features, you must not get lazy in the usual note-taking. This is especially important for students who are used to making their notes in class since students tend to get complacent just listening to a blank screen or even a video. This can be done either with pen and paper or even using digital alternatives like Microsoft Word.
6: Keep Calm
Zoom fatigue is a term that is slowly been realized as a very real and concerning issue with today’s student community. This fatigue describes the tiredness, anxiety, or worry resulting from overusing virtual platforms and software. If you feel overwhelmed, anxious and tired, do not hesitate to take a break.
7: Reward for Students
Every now and then, create a process with your teachers to reward students with an appreciation for certain accomplishments. There can be a simple test, a presentation or an aesthetic performance to change the monotonous pattern and those who do well can be rewarded. You will feel more motivated, and it may increase your efficiency as you know that there is a reward waiting for you if you do a good job. This could be a certificate, a shout out in the classroom or anything that is suitable.
Online learning may seem not your cup of tea at first. However, considering the strange times we are in today surrounded by a virus, online learning is the best and the safest method to keep you going with your education. To make things even easier, you can actually look at the plus sides of it too. Being in the comfort of your home, the possibility to surround yourself with snacks, and the convenience in reaching out to your teacher fast and effectively via personal messages. These points coupled with the tips we discussed should get you just alright through your online learning spree.