The New Normal! — Getting Organized For Home-Based Learning.
Tags: New Normal, Home Based Learning, Covid Diaries, Lockdown Learning, Getting Organized

The New Normal — Home- Based Learning can present unique challenges to the learners if not prepared mentally. We have compiled a comprehensive list of study-from-home tips and tricks for getting organized for home-based learning and take your productivity a notch higher to make sure you get the most value out of your next class.

One of the most important things you need to do is accept that a new normal (reality ) should come with a different level of expectations. You can’t compare it with the Pre- COVID scenario.

In the Pre-COVID scenario, earning a college degree meant physically attending in-person classes, however, the Covid-19 pandemic has shaken up the entire world and has brought about monumental changes in our lifestyle. COVID-19 has migrated the entire student population online. Online classes are not easy but, If you develop skills for effective online learning, you have a great chance of being successful.

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

― Benjamin Franklin

Let’s get started!

1. Consider Online Courses like a “Real” course.

As the Lockdown has imposed everyone to study and work remotely students, from school and universities, are logged in to their online classrooms from their homes, the first thing that learners(you) need to keep in mind is treating your online classes the same way you would take your face-to-face class — or even better. There is no one to monitor your actions so need to be honest to yourself. Always keep in mind why you are seeking this degree and what you want to get from this. (You know the answer better !).

2. Set Up A Permanent Learning Space

Where do you normally study? If the answer is “lying in bed with my laptop propped on my knees while eating deep-fried Lays,” then you might want to consider revamping your study space. Starting with the obvious, when studying from home, it is essential to set up a permanent dedicated learning space. Setting up a regular learning space will help you to stay organized.No, it does not mean that one has to build a room it simply means having all essentials in place.

Find a quiet corner or area in your home free from distraction and noise interference.

Keep all the basic study essentials like a table, chair, laptop- charger, books, and blank worksheets handy.

Have a high-speed internet connection. Have the required books, materials, and software for the course. Have headphones for listening to lectures or discussions (especially important in shared spaces)

3. Participate Actively Rather Than a Passive Learner.

Engage! Don’t disengage simply because it is online learning. When it comes to attending online classes, you need to inculcate the discipline and mindset to sit down and say, “I am going to get involved in every class with full dedication” and follow the tasks with maximum concentrations. Because if you don’t affirm this you may procrastinate your work indefinitely as there is no one to keep a check on you. (Also there are ample reasons for ). So students must participate proactively.

4. Make and Follow a Study Time Table

With online classes, there is great flexibility and freedom to create your schedule but that freedom can also be detrimental if you do not have solid time management skills. It is best to have a scheduled time table to study also ensure that it is aligned with your college schedule. Dedicate a specified time for self-study each day and isolate yourself from distractions. Set out a clear and achievable study plan and stick to it 95% of the time. Have a planner for college only. In the planner, you can organize your daily tasks or assignments that need to be completed. You can also schedule your study sessions and which topics you will be working on for that day allowing yourself some room and respite for the unexpected. Review pending lessons /assignments at the weekend. For enhanced productivity, you can cut off all electronics or put them on silent.

5.Clear Your Doubts

Generally, with online classes, there is a lag in understanding so don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you don’t understand, just ask. The professors are there to help. Failure to ask may cost you a good grade on an assignment or permanently ignoring the topic or concept. Ask questions and participate as much as you can. If you are confused about a course or have questions about an assignment, do not hesitate to ask your instructor. They are there to guide students in the learning process. They want to help students succeed. This will surely create a two-way bonding between the student and the professor.

6. Hold Yourself Accountable & Beat Deadlines

In a traditional classroom setting, you’ll often receive verbal or visual reminders of an assignment’s upcoming due date. But without a professor or faculty actively reminding you, it’s up to you to make sure you’ve allotted enough time to complete the work so you’re not starting an assignment the day before it’s due. Set a strict guideline on assignments as missing to do so may create unnecessary stress and anxiety. If alone you are not able to keep a record of your work you can always pair up with your best friend or classmate to check in as an accountability partner. By being organized, proactive, and self-aware, you can get the most from your online class even when life outside of college becomes chaotic.

7. Observe Audio & Video Call Etiquette

When working from home, since your classmates and faculty are only available on Zoom / Google Meet or Hangouts, it is advisable to establish a proper channel of communication. Communication is the number one thing that will make online learning a positive experience else it may create a huge gap and give a disconnected feeling. One of the most important tips to follow when working from home is the following audio and video call etiquette.

This can be embarrassing if you don’t turn off your audio or video as especially in Indian households, distractions are aplenty. From pets barging into your room to your parents and siblings checking up on you from time to time, it can be hard to stay connected and focussed. You could consider wearing headphones or earplugs to keep distractions at bay.

From pets barging into your room to your parents and siblings checking up on you from time to time, it can be hard to stay connected and focussed. You could consider wearing headphones or earplugs to keep distractions at bay. Besides, it is of utmost essential to look presentable and be a professional each time you Google Meet /Skype or Facetime with your classmates and faculty. Students need to dress up appropriately before online classes. If you are in your pajamas; or loungewear, it is advisable to change into professional attire, like a shirt paired with pants. You need to get a feeling like you are in college and not home.

Secondly, make sure that the room you are in is well-lit. For video, call ensure the placement of the camera is in the right position and monitor what is being captured. (Do not forget to turn off the camera )

8. Reward Yourself and Make The Most This Time.

Do not forget to Reward yourself! Focus on the big picture and remember why you chose to study in the first place. Take one step at a time and, before you know it, you’ll be closer to achieving your dreams. It always seems to be easier to motivate ourselves when we know something is waiting for us at the finish line.

Online classes are an excellent option to help you learn during the times of this pandemic though they come with their own unique challenges, following the advice above can help you be successful even in the most chaotic of times.

I hope this guide has given you some strategies and inspiration for how to create a study environment that may work best for you during this pandemic.

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