Online learning may seem strange at first, but once you get the hang of it it’ll be no scarier than learning in a classroom. I’ve taken at least one online class every semester of college and I actually enjoy the flexibility and independence of this learning style. If this is your first time experiencing online classes or you’ve taken them before but haven’t gotten the hang of it yet, don’t worry. Here are some tips to help you succeed in online classes!
- Use a planner, calendar or schedule to stay on top of due dates
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When all your learning for a class is online rather than in person, it can be confusing to remember which assignments are due at which times. So having some type of system to remind yourself when your lectures will be and when work will be due is important to stay on top of it. For me, physically writing it all out in a planner works best, but there are also many apps that can be used for this.
- Try to improve your writing skills
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Most online classes require more writing than traditional classes. A lot of your communication will be through email or online discussion (rather than orally participating in class), so brushing up on these skills will help you. Try your best to avoid typos and sloppy writing!
- Silence, turn off and/or hide your phone
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Although I’ve always been good with time-management, I’ll admit that there have been plenty of times when I was doing work for an online class but I could hear my phone “blowing up.” So I gave in to the temptation of checking texts and snaps or scrolling through Insta when I should have been getting my work done. However, I solved this problem by silencing my phone and putting it a desk drawer and only allowing myself to use it after I completed my work. Trying this technique will help you improve your focus and work more efficiently!
- Choose a non-distracting place to work
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I recommend choosing a room you know will be quiet and where you’ll have enough space to work. Avoid places where you know people will be constantly going in and out. If you choose to work in your room, avoid doing work in your bed because this can cause you to associate the place where you sleep and relax with the stress of schoolwork.
- Check your email and any websites your professors use to communicate every day
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This is important to stay on top of possible assignments or instructions. You don’t want to miss anything!
- Ask for help when you need it
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You won’t be able to raise your hand every time you have a question, but it’s still important to ask for help when you need it. Don’t be afraid to email your professor if you need clarification on an assignment. If you want a second opinion on your work or want someone to look over an assignment, try texting a friend or asking a family member.
- Get familiar with the technology needed for class
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Professors use many different types of software to communicate, so make sure you know how to use whatever programs you may need for class, whether it’s for video conferences, submitting assignments or online discussions.
- Don’t Procrastinate
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One huge similarity between traditional and online classes is that procrastinating is never a good idea!
- Take breaks when needed
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Staring at a screen for too many hours at a time isn’t good for you. Remember to take breaks as needed to relax and recharge so you’ll be sharp when it’s time to get back to work. Also, don’t get so wrapped up in your work that you forget to eat!
If you’re nervous about online learning, don’t worry, you’ve got this. Just be patient, open-minded and follow these tips to thrive in your online classes!