In these turbulent times, several universities have suspended face-to-face classes and students have to attend online classes. For some students, this could be quite challenging.
It’s not easy to manage your study time and make use of online seminars and lectures to the fullest extent, however, there are a few ways in which you can accomplish this. The following is just a broad guideline that applies to all students. However, your institution might have specific rules that are in place, so be sure to keep an eye on your email and web portal for information.
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Engage in your education
Similar to how you take notes while you are attending lectures, it’s an excellent idea to keep a notepad when you are watching or listening to online lectures. Find a comfortable spot keep the notebook and pen in your bag and keep other distractions to the minimum.
Make time to look at your schedule and figure out a study routine to ensure you’re well-prepared to be able to attend all of the online seminars and lectures. Read the necessary books / study material prior to your visit and inquire if there’s something you’re not certain about.
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Coordinate chats in groups
There are numerous online tools like Skype or Zoom which you can download free of charge and let you coordinate video chats between groups of individuals. Make use of these applications to create study groups that include classmates so you can have a time discussing concepts, analyzing texts with them, and sharing ideas for studying.
It is a fantastic method to stay in touch with fellow classmates in the class and to ensure that you’re able to maintain the collaboration aspect of your course at university. It can also help to create an element of social interaction so that you don’t feel lonely working on your own.
Make sure you know the topic you’re discussing prior to your meeting and make sure you stick to the subject so that the discussion stays focused and you aren’t distracted by other topics.
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Stay in contact with your lecturers and tutors.
It is possible that you will not be able to see your teacher during their normal office hours, however, make sure that you stay in touch with them regularly. Maybe a quick email every week or every few days to make sure you’re aware informed of any changes in your course. In addition, if you’re experiencing stress or anxiety having a chat with your tutor can help ease any anxiety you may be experiencing.
Be sure to stay in contact with lecturers and seminar directors to ensure you have the most up-to-date reading lists and are at the right places to find notes on lectures and slides. Do not hesitate to make contact with concerns regarding your learning However, be patient in waiting for an answer. Your teacher is likely working under great pressure to create classes for online delivery, therefore allow them enough time to respond to you.
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Make sure you have the necessary tools for studying
Online classes require a well-working computer and an internet connection. A few students already have these items, but if do not, talk to your teacher or the student services department about how you can facilitate this. There might be laptop computers that you could borrow, or form a small group with students studying together.
Be sure to have plenty of stationery (pens or highlighters, notebooks, etc.) and the right materials or books to read from, whether they are hard copies or digital versions.
Visit your portal on a daily basis for information on class schedules as well as any study tools or study aids that the university has to aid you.
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Take a look at your workspace at your home
If you’re used to working in the library of your campus It can be difficult to adjust to studying at home the majority of your time. There are however some things you can do to help get your mind in the right mindset.
First, find an area in which you can sit down and work. Some students are fortunate enough to have desks however if not have one, any surface that you are able to sit comfortably on with your laptop or notes is sufficient. Be sure to keep everything you need in your bag so you don’t have to be constantly moving around.
A lot of universities across the globe have maintained their libraries in operation, so this might be an option. However, make sure not to be too close with your fellow students. It’s also essential to adhere to the most current guidelines for leaving your home within the country you’re currently in, so make sure to verify if it is something you’re permitted to do.
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Make sure you take regular breaks
It’s standard advice, but it’s more crucial than ever before for students studying in your own home. It’s not necessary to adhere to a 9-5 work schedule when it’s not working for you. But, you should determine the times you are most productive and plan your working day around them.
Making sure you take breaks throughout the day helps keep your mind alert and is one of the best methods to make sure you aren’t burning out. Get off your laptop every so often and engage in something you love whether that’s taking a break to read a chapter in your book, watching a small amount of TV, or playing an activity. Make an effort to go out at least once per day to walk (if you’re able) and set yourself goals you look forward to each day.
It is also crucial to set a specific deadline for when you have finished your study throughout the day. Take your study materials home at the end of the day, if you are able to, so you are able to relax for the evening, without having your books sitting in front of you.
