Posted on Thursday August 27, 2020

Distance learning: 5 tips for success

If the evenings are cooler and the sun is setting earlier, it must be back-to-school time! This year, instead of trying to memorize your classroom numbers or figuring out the best route to avoid traffic jams, preparations are taking on a whole new vibe. Here are five tips to help at-home students adapt to Zoom classes, virtual group projects and student life in slippers!

Tip 1: Have what you need for a positive distance learning experience

Written notes have given way to the computer, so for online learning you’ll need to completely revamp your back-to-school supplies list!

Comfortable equipment for an enjoyable experience

Three hours listening to your teacher on the telephone—as lively as he may be—can be difficult. To learn in comfort, you’ll need a tablet or laptop with a good-sized screen.

For better ergonomics, get a Bluetooth keyboard and a second stand-alone screen since working for long periods on a laptop presents postural constraints that can lead to muscle pain. As suggested in Entrac’s Ergonomics and Temporary Work from Home guide, you can raise your screen to keep your head upright and opt for a keyboard that allows you to type at the same height as your desk.

A good Internet connection: Essential for a glitch-free course

Did you like your epistemology course so much that you want to take it twice? To ensure that your connection doesn’t decide to take a break while you’re trying to take in crucial information, you’ll need a high-speed Wi-Fi connection!

Before signing up for the Cadillac of Internet contracts, test your Internet speed through Google. It will measure your download and upload speeds and tell you what types of devices your Wi-Fi will support. You’ll be able to determine the quality of your next Zoom session and better target your real connection needs.

Tip 2: Find a good place to study

Birds make their nests bit by bit, and so do students! Whether it’s a balcony, living room, kitchen or closet (preferably the walk-in type!), your environment will have a considerable impact on your ability to concentrate and maintain motivation. Avoid sitting in the chair where you play GTA until 2 a.m. By setting aside a space for productive activities, you can eliminate distractions and temptations.

Take the time to set up your new classroom with things that will put you in the ideal state of mind to absorb what you’re studying: lavender candles, lounge music, super-strong coffee, Dalí prints—find what will motivate you!

Look for peace and quiet outside your home

Feel like a change of scenery or just want to escape the family mayhem? Despite health restrictions, there are plenty of places to go if you’re looking for a quiet space. Check out the Moncton Public Library, Tony’s Bistro & Pâtisserie near Université de Moncton or Café Archibald or take refuge in any other similar location near you.

Tip 3: Establish and follow a schedule

You might think that attending an Economics 101 class in your pyjamas is a bit like being on forced leave, but despite the radical change in dress and atmosphere, it still takes discipline and determination. Whether it’s a paper agenda, Google calendar or reminders on your smartphone, find the best platform to help you stay on track.

Classes with different schedules and deadlines present a real challenge for attendance. Block specific time slots each week so you don’t forget anything. Establish a routine and avoid putting work off until the next day.

Tip 4: Actively participate in courses and interact with the student community

Do you have to interact in a virtual classroom? Absolutely! Write down a set number of questions to ask during each class. Not only will you demonstrate your interest and commitment to your professor, but you’ll also be better able to absorb the material and ensure that you’ve understood it.

Online teamwork

Don’t worry. Despite the distance, you’ll still have those legendary sleepless nights while finishing your group projects! To adapt your collaborative work to the new reality, use different platforms such as Teams (Office 365 suite) or Google Drive. By using the same software as your peers, you’ll be able to communicate effectively and have an experience closer to in-person teamwork. You’ll also get better results!

Tip 5: Stimulate your daily motivation

You can condition yourself to be motivated by your courses. Reward each hour spent on a subject with a little rest, a snack or a walk to stretch your legs.

Looking for long-term motivation? Put the money you save on transportation, lodging, lunches, coffee or outdoor activities to work for you—maybe for guitar lessons or even for buying a new car or house. Comfortably invested in a TFSA, your savings will be a source of positive and lasting motivation.

Distance learning courses are challenging, but with a little perseverance and diligence, you can do as well as you did in previous in-person school terms. And who knows, you might even get to like studying to the “musical” sound of a lawnmower!