While distance learning has been around for quite some time, it is only until recently that all teachers and students were constrained to bring learning virtually. Because of the circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, many had to learn the ropes of online distance learning, with some admittedly having a difficult time adjusting to this entirely new set-up.
To those who are still struggling getting used to this system, or to those who are looking to improve their performance in distance learning, here are the top five tips on how to excel in the virtual classroom!
#1: Make a plan (and stick to it).
Making a to-do list or a daily plan or schedule is one way to actually get things done, despite the temptations and distractions present at home. Truly, one of the things that is absent in the virtual classroom (but present in the traditional face-to-face set-up) is the set of rigid rules and fixed schedule, and this absence contributes to the inclination of lazing around or putting off doing learning activities. Thus, a self-imposed plan helps online learners to be disciplined and be able to accomplish tasks at home.
#2: Avoid procrastinating.
In relation to the first point, procrastinating is very likely to happen in the online distance learning set-up, especially when it comes to asynchronous activities like homework and offline reading assignments. This may be a result of the notion that online learning is more flexible and lenient, or of the fact that doing literally everything just at home since the start of the pandemic has become dull and unstimulating. To avoid this, it must be emphasised that sticking to a plan, as raised in the first point, is an effective way to fight procrastination, ensure productivity, and facilitate learning.
#3: Have a dedicated study space.
One of the challenges that learners have had from the shift to online learning is the lack of a conducive environment that the traditional classroom offers. This is why having a dedicated study space is a must in this new learning set-up, as it helps in increasing productivity and helps the learner concentrate and take control over his or her academic work. A study space need not be fancy; all it needs is to be quiet, organised, and functional.
#4: Resist multitasking.
In connection to the previous tips, with a set plan or schedule and a dedicated study space away from distractions, multitasking is effectively avoided. Needless to say, resisting multitasking is an important key to successfully facilitate learning. The mind needs to focus on the task at hand, whether that be studying new content or completing an assignment, in order to accomplish things, gain new information, and retain such information for long-term knowledge.
#5: Get some rest.
Lastly, allow your mind and body to rest after a productive day of accomplishing tasks and ticking them all off your to-do list! A healthy and well-rested body ensures that learners have the necessary energy to carry on with remote learning and all the activities and responsibilities it entails. Of course, getting some rest should not only be done at the end of day; taking short breaks throughout the day helps, too, in making sure that the brain and body recover from stress and in improving focus, attention, and overall performance.
While we all wish to go back to the classroom and learn with peers again someday, the virtual classroom is the best thing we have now to ensure that learning does not stop. Hopefully, with these tips, online learners see improvements in their productivity and performance!
Your Language School offers a variety of online courses, targeting different skills and objectives. Check out our course offerings or send us a message to enquire about classes that can cater to your needs. We are looking forward to having you with us virtually!
