Students who had just finished an online term were asked what advice they would give other students about online learning. Here are the results.
Consistency – schedule, work practices – everything – have a routine, keep it
Schedule when you will watch material, do other work
Schedule breaks, e.g., every 25 minutes, break for 5
Study plan, calendar – paper, white board, google docs, etc.
Track deadlines in one place – all deadlines, changes to deadlines – create visual overview
Read the course outlines – understand what is expected, when, what the rules are
Do not fall behind on content
Reach out for help, talk to the TAs, profs
It is ok to be confused, but you need to ask for help – sort it out
Remember that no instructor can baby the students through their class, you will have to find what works for you
Know where, how to find resources
Don’t blame yourself, don’t blame others, keep focused, move forward
Minimize distractions
Quiet space – get rid of the phone, social media, videos, etc. when studying
Work on yourself – work/life balance, take breaks
Develop a sense of urgency (not too much, but some) – don’t totally relax
Find a balance – work/life
Communicate with classmates
Make it feel like a class, like a job
Self-regulate, self-motivate
Have a good computer setup – two monitors (do not live off laptop/tablet for term), real keyboard, good desk, chair, wifi, webcam, headphones
Have a good supportive network, when you feel you are alone, make sure you are not
Write weekly reflections, summarize ‘what did I learn’ (not memorized, but REALLY learned)
Figure out what makes you most productive