Online classes during a pandemic aren’t easy and a lot of students need a lot of time to adjust when coursework and group work are now online. It may be challenging but hang in there! You can do it! by following these ten tips I’ve come up with to help you succeed in online classes.
And to be honest with you, I am still not yet used to online classes, and I don’t think I will be anytime sooner. With online classes, it’s so easy to be overwhelmed and my overthinking doesn’t help either. However, these tips helped me a lot in my online study success. This is why I want to share it with you.
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What Are the Pros and Cons of Online Classes?
Pros
- You can spend quality time with your family at home
- Online classes teach you to be self-disciplined
- Online classes give you flexibility whereas some college students balance work and academics.
- Allows you to save money by not having transportation and food expenses
- Regardless of where you live, you can attend online classes as long as you have an internet connection
Cons
- Requires good time-management skills
- Minimal physical interactions can create a sense of isolation
- Online classes make it easier to procrastinate
- Makes you spend long hours sitting using digital devices which can cause chronic neck and back pain, sleep problems, and eye strain.
- Some lessons can be difficult to understand when it needs to have a physical demonstration
1. Calendar
Use an online or printed calendar to keep you on track. Whenever there is a new announcement for an online meeting or an assessment, take note of it immediately. To make sure you do not forget about them. You can set an alarm to prompt you.
I also plan my schedule for the whole week on my desk calendar, and it does keep me on track. Just remember, to give yourself tasks that you know you can do for the day. As overscheduling causes stress and pressure
2. Stay Organized and Have a Study Space
Find a place that is quiet and free from distractions where you can focus on your work. Ensure that your study space is comfortable, with a comfortable chair and a proper study table. I suggest getting a cushion and lumbar support pillow that could provide support for your bottom and back.
This is very important because online classes will make you spend hours studying and working on assessments for the whole day and having one helped me with my scoliosis.
You’ll also need to stay organized. By storing your files in a folder that is properly labeled, that way you won’t have any problems looking for an important file. And by keeping your desk clean and free from distractions.
3. Empathy
Online classes are tough for both students and teachers. Always be kind and patient to others as they may be going through some personal problems. This goes the same for us, many people do not know what we are feeling and what’s happening around us.
4. Diligence
It’s important not to wait for the deadline before you start working and don’t let your assessments pile up. The workload can be a burden and stressful. Especially, if you are not used to doing online classes. I suggest starting a routine and allot time for you to work on your daily academic work.
5. Mental Health
Mental health is very important and it must be your top priority. As online classes can cause fatigue after long video calls. While lack of interaction and social isolation can make someone feel an empty void.
A lot of students including myself have experienced an increase in anxiety and stress because the pressure of online classes while not learning that much can be really stressful. That sometimes I feel like giving up.
However, if the pressure can be too much for you, then don’t hesitate to take a break. Take care of your mental health first because being healthy emotionally can promote productivity and effectiveness. Most importantly, you are in control of your thoughts and feelings.
Related Post: 10 Tips You Need To Improve Your Mental Health
6. Have an Outlet
Having an outlet like your family and friends is extremely important. Since It is better to express your thoughts and feelings, rather than getting it all bottled up until you explode unto somebody. Trust me, talking to them during rough times will help you emotionally.
Everyone expresses themselves in different ways. If not your family and friends, you can find a hobby like sports and arts. That you can use as an emotional outlet for your emotions.
7. Physical Activities and Pets
Exercise as much as possible because any physical activity releases happy chemicals in the body that can improve a person’s mental health, and avoid mental exhaustion. If your situation allows you to do so, I highly suggest getting a dog or any pet.
Studies have shown that owning a pet can even lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety. I have a dog named “Calci” we didn’t buy him, someone just gave him to us and he is truly the best. Without him, I wouldn’t go outside and take a walk, but ever since Calci came I’ve decided to take him on a walk every morning, and playing with him just made me much happier.
8. Take It Seriously
When studying, you need to have the discipline to focus on your task and nothing else. A reminder that I always remind myself is that “I am paying to take this online course” therefore I must take it seriously to get the real value of it.
To make it all worth it, you’ll need to attend online classes, and do your best to listen to what your professor is saying.
9. Remember Your Goals
It’s so easy to be unmotivated when the transition toward online learning has been difficult. A lot of students found it difficult to focus when there are multiple demands on their time for their family and studies.
But when you’re feeling unmotivated and you need a little push, remind yourself why you enrolled in online courses, and that is to achieve your goals. I suggest setting achievable goals at first, and step by step aim for your big goals. That way you won’t be too overwhelmed and be more motivated.
Related: 10 Reasons Why You’re Feeling Unmotivated and How To Fix It
10. Take Breaks
I know how stressful it is to be given multiple assessments with near deadlines. However, if you feel tired, don’t hesitate to take a break. A nap or a short walk to clear your mind will do, as long as you do not force yourself onto completing something.
Forcing yourself is not an ideal solution as you’ll only increase your frustration. Plus, if it’s not a school day, set your assessments aside first and relax. Pamper yourself and spend time with your family.
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