ADJUSTING TO ONLINE LEARNING

SET A SCHEDULE AND CLEAR THE WAY.

Whether we like it or not, many of us have fewer social commitments, group meetings, or work hours. Setting a schedule for yourself can help provide structure.

• Try to keep your regular class schedule. For instance, if you have a class that met at 10 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays, consider doing that class at the same time with a similar structure. Building on an existing habit helps us make a smoother transition.
• Remember the 8x8x8 rule. Dedicate 8 hours for schoolwork, 8 hours for other commitments (work, self-care, etc.), and 8 hours for rest. Life doesn’t always allow us to follow this rule, but it can be helpful to remember to try to find some balance in your new schedule. 
• Have a planner (online or paper) and stay organized with your daily/weekly tasks. With having so much free time, it can be easy to lose track of time and deadlines. Remember to check Canvas daily for updates from your instructors.
• Don’t assume that online classes will be easy and neglect your study habits. An online class requires you to have the same commitment as your regular class.

Locate and prepare your at-home classroom. You'll want a room or a space that is can be consistent and clear of distractions. 

Think of the basics:

• You'll need outlets to keep yourself plugged in
• Good task lighting and ideally some natural light
• A chair that isn't too comfortable
• Room to spread out and write as needed

Make it totally yours:

• Establish a rule and a way to let others know that you are busy

• Use headphones (try white noise) or earplugs to tune out

• Gather up everything you'll need for your day (textbooks, paper, etc) to reduce the little trips around the house

CHECK OUT: Time Management Resources  |  Time Management Tools in Canvas

REVISE YOUR STRATEGIES.

Your usual routine may have to adjust during this time. Look for ways to continue (or adapt, if needed) your positive habits and form new ones.

• Ask yourself what kind of environment helps you study. See if you can recreate that at home. Maybe it’s studying in a chair, rather than on your bed or couch, or moving to a new spot when you change tasks. If you feel you need background noise, consider a white noise app.
• If you used to work with a friend at a coffee shop, try a virtual or even phone-based study session with your group. 

• Always take notes as you go through lectures, watch videos, or read. Keep all notes/documents from each class together in the same notebook and/or folder to help yourself stay organized.

• Try new ways to do old tricks. For example, flashcards are a proven method and you can make them online!

CHECK OUT: Learning Style Strategies  |  Studying Resources

STAY ENGAGED.

As we limit face-to-face time, connecting with classmates, instructors, family, and friends in other ways is more important than ever. We are all feeling the effects, but isolation does not overpower our ability to connect.

Be an active participant in class.

• Stay engaged with your instructor and classmates. An easy way to lose motivation in an online class is to feel like you are all alone taking the class. Ask your instructor questions on Canvas or via email. 
• Consider your tone and be smart with your emails or messages. You won't be able to convey tone or body language as easily, so review your communications before you send them. You don't want to be misinterpreted or confusing. 
• Use technology (Canvas, Blackboard Collaborate Ultra, social media, Facetime, etc.) to connect with your classmates. Create a virtual study session or find ways to stay connected to support each other. Don’t be afraid to create the community that you need to succeed.
• Attend your instructor’s virtual office hours. Even if it is just to say hello and thank them for continuing to be available to students. They will appreciate the engagement!
• Check on each other and ask for backup. If someone has been absent from your group meetings or chat, ask them if they are still able to participate. If you don't hear back, let your instructor know.

Be an active participant in the campus community.

• Schedule video calls with friends and family. Talking with loved ones is often really helpful when you’re stressed or nervous about something.
• Taking a break to share updates on social media. If social media hasn't been your thing, you may find value in checking out new online platforms. You may find one that you like!
• If you are feeling increasingly isolated, please speak up. Contact the Student Health and Counseling Center for support.

CHECK OUT: Campus Activities and Engagement