Do you want to know how to survive your online classes? Discover the 5 online learning strategies to make your ‘new normal’ manageable and successful!

One of the top questions for every students (and parents) is about the best possible way to adjust on the current academic online learning. With the back-to-school debate, a learner’s adapting skills can make or break the virtual educational learning. So to help bridge that gap and uncertainty, we’ve compiled a list of student hacks which every Beacon can use as a guide in adjusting to today’s academic set-up.

 

Adjusting to the New Normal

Online learning is never easier compared to its’ on-campus counterpart / traditional classroom setting because it demands the same level of focus and motivation. There are academic hurdles and additional distractions that every online student may encounter – which can be extremely challenging to handle!

If you feel like you’re not prepared for this kind of academic set-up or you think you need to develop more skills so you wouldn’t have a hard time managing your online classes, here are some tips for your online learning success.

 

1. Find your Learning Style

When you’re at home, studying and resting can be pretty much easy to meld together – which opens up a perfect moment to procrastinate! It is very tempting to stay in bed longer, get easily distracted with almost anything (particularly Netflix) or simply ending up falling asleep while on class (which you can easily get away with) since you can turned your cam and mic off.

It is all about finding what works best for you! Are you a morning person or more of a night owl? Learn to set a schedule that aligns with your learning style. If you need coffee or some snacks to munch on during class, simply do whatever helps you get into the zone. If listening to your go-to playlist can help you grasp new information, then you may do so. Whether you’re a visual learner or learn best by listening, make sure to build you learning routine and employ relevant study strategies based on what keeps you going and motivated.

 

2. Knowing the Do’s and Don’ts

Switching to online learning can be difficult. Not only because it is something new but more in the sense of differentiating between studying and resting while being at home for both. So how can we maintain a healthy balance during this period of pandemic?

• Master the Art of Time Management
  

  You have to create a schedule and learn to stick by it. Without a teacher/professor to regularly check in, it is highly important that you leverage your time management skills. Mark your calendars or make use of sticky-notes or a planner to keep you up-to-date with your workload. It can greatly assist you to determine your prior commitments steadying your schedule.

   

• Get Organized!
  

  Making an ‘Action List’ can also help you commit to your routine and deadlines. It is important that you check your work and submit them on or before the given deadline.  Even if you weren’t a ‘planner’ person before,  try taking notes.  You can also keep track with your planner (a simple notebook may suffice as a planner or perhaps an online planner app).

  We suggest breaking down the work into three categories: first are the highly important tasks, second would be smaller (or one-off) assignments, and lastly, the non-academic tasks. It all comes down to prioritizing and taking action to complete the list.

  Another thing to help you be organized is to set up your workspace by dedicating a place that can be your personal learning hub at home. Find your learning spot and separate the spaces because it can help your mindset to switch between study mode and rest mode – then the productivity follows! So pick your location wisely.

• Understanding the Online Learning Etiquette
  

  It is important to learn how to conduct yourself properly in an online class. Here’s the ‘net-iquette’ guide you can follow:

  • Be Punctual. You may not need to ride or head out to walk in order to go to school – for now. But it doesn’t mean you should not be up and early for your online class. Be considerate to your teachers and classmates by checking-in at least 10 minutes before the actual time of your online class.
    
  • Prepare all your essentials – device, notes and everything you need! Preparing yourself to be ready for online class requires proper attention towards your essential tools for learning. Aside from prepping your workspace with notebooks, pens and snacks. Make sure to power up your device (smartphone, tablets or laptops) fully charged (or plugged in during class) so there will be less chances of
    sudden power interruption.
  • Pay attention with the right attitude. You have to be mindful of your attitude and the language you use. Avoid creating unnecessary actions that may disrupt the class, click the designated ‘hand icon’ (if you wish to speak) for any online tool your class is using and always remember to keep it professional. You have to set a respectful tone and think before you type.

 

3. Getting Help from Mobile Apps

Done setting smart goals for each of your class? Then the underlying goal would be the method of executing them as smoothly and efficiently as possible. There are several mobile apps online (which are also downloadable), that can help you avoid procrastination and facilitate learning with ease! Here are some of essential apps you can try: 

• Evernote – A virtual notebook and storage app that helps you stay organized by allowing you to take notes with ease, clip and collect notes (virtual/handwritten), highlight articles or lecture notes, creates checklist and sends reminder notifications. It is compatible to Android, iOS (iPhone) and iOS (iPad).
  
• Dropbox – A great storage app that will help your computer from being completely bogged down with all the documents you’ve created. If your work keeps getting lost in your ‘My Documents’ folder, this is the app you’ll need. It is similar to Google Drive and iCloud but one good thing that Dropbox has is you can configure your documents to be automatically saved without the hassle of logging in; plus it’s free! It is available for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Kindle Fire.
• Lucidchart – An app for mind-mapping and workflow or process diagramming needs. It has features for an easy-to-use, drag-and-drop functionality and can be integrated with other apps particularly for the purpose of getting group projects done. It is well-known as a diagram builder app with its’ “share/collaborate” function that works real time and every diagram you’ve created can be exported as a PDF, PNG or Visio format (for Pro versions). This app is compatible with iOS (iPhone) iOS (iPad) and Android devices.
  

4. Be an Active Participant and Stay Connected

Yes, you don’t have to be physically present on a class but it doesn’t changes the need to be proactive. Some may find it easier to simply turn up their active status online (in any online platform your class is using) since it’s just one click away. However, the more important thing other than attending is listening and taking in all the learning bits you can gather. 

Engagement, of course, is essential as well! Don’t be scared to speak up and connect. Reach out if you’re struggling. Never shy away from connecting with your professors, simply type away your queries or when you are experiencing technical difficulties. 

5. Online Security Matters!

As you stay connected with everyone, you must also be mindful of maintaining your security. Never share your password and any confidential information to anyone. If you got technology-related questions or concerns relating to your myBECaccount, you can get in touch with one of our IT specialists from ITSO (itso@bec.edu.ph)

 

Batangas Eastern Colleges strive to make your transition into online learning easier through the tips and strategies we’ve recommended. Amidst this global pandemic, continue to follow your dreams and goals. Push through your online classes with vigor and positivity! Surround yourself with a good support and completely trust the Lord as your foundation to solidify success. 

For additional student-focused guides, FAQs and more related to student experience as a Beacon, explore our Campus Life blog.