Post-pandemic adaptations has made online learning a prevalent option. This method of delivery allows flexibility in study time and location, enabling you to maximise your learning. Nevertheless, with no lectures or seminars to physically attend, one’s ability to mentally prioritise and initiate studies is put to the test. In this article, EIA gathers six tips for effective online learning to help you quickly adapt to this study mode. Let’s dive in!
1. Manage your time and study plan
If you do not have strong time management skills, the freedom of attending online classes can be counterproductive. It is critical to understand what is expected of you at each stage, including any important dates and deadlines.
A little upfront admin labour will pay dividends when you’re deep in an assignment mindset. Examine the syllabus at the beginning of the semester and prepare a list of significant assignments. Put them on a calendar that you frequently check to know what work is coming up in the following weeks. Your calendar should include the following:
- Your assessment deadlines with colour-coded for each subject.
- Links to your online lectures and workshops.
- Any critical dates from your academic calendar, such as online orientation, webinars, etc.
2. Prepare everything you need before the lecture or workshop
Before you begin your subject, make sure you have everything ready and accessible. At the start of each semester, create a folder for each subject.
Create three subfolders within these folders:
- Briefs for assessment.
- Lecture slides for printout ahead to take notes.
- Content – saved journal articles, textbook chapters, videos, quizzes, and other documents connected to that subject.
3. Set up a regular study area and remove possible distractions
When creating a separate learning environment for studying, you’ll develop a routine by doing your tasks there regularly. When arranging your study place, be sure that you:
- Have a fast internet connection
- Have all of the necessary texts, resources, and software for the course.
- Use headphones to hear lectures or debates (significant in shared spaces)
- Consider turning off your phone and downloading a website blocker to avoid losing attention.
4. Take advantage of technology
Make use of the technology available to enhance your online studying experience. Utilise tools such as note-taking apps, flashcard programs, and interactive learning platforms to keep your study sessions interesting and effective.
5. Actively participate and ask questions
Active participation in the course can assist you in better understanding course materials and engaging with classmates. You’ll get much more out of your online experience by interacting and asking questions.
The following are the best places to ask questions:
- Live workshops – this is a terrific way to ask ‘face-to-face’ like questions because they allow for more interactive activities and will enable you to ask any follow-up questions.
- Subject forums – questions can be answered by other students, not just lecturers, which can enhance your learning experience greatly.
- Student experience (such as phone or email) – the support team at your institute is available to assist you with a wide range of queries and issues, not just academic ones.
And, if you notice yourself slipping behind, speak up. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask enquiries or report problems with an assignment. Send an email to your lecturer and ask for assistance.
6. Leverage your network
Online classes may give the impression that you are learning on your own. In fact, most online courses are designed with collaboration in mind, with professors and instructors actively encouraging students to work together to complete projects and discuss topics.
Introduce yourself to other students and participate in online discussion boards to build relationships. Your peers can be a great resource when preparing for tests or seeking feedback on papers. Don’t be hesitant to approach them about forming a virtual study group. They are likely to appreciate it just as much as you would.
