Bluffton students are having to adjust to remote learning since the university has ceased its face-to-face classes. Suddenly moving to remote learning is frustrating because we decided to live away from home to get in-person education from our professors. If we wanted to take classes online, we would have chosen to do so, to begin with.
However, moving off-campus and taking classes online was something that had to be done because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With this said, there is not much we can do about our learning situation, so why don’t we make the best of it and do our best with our studies given the circumstances.
Yes, not being in class may have thrown a wrench into how you learn and do your schoolwork, but this doesn’t mean you are now going to be unsuccessful.
Here are some tips to help you navigate remote learning along with some examples of my set up at home.
Tip number 1: Have a schedule you follow.
“To stay motivated to attend Zoom meetings, get yourself on a schedule,” said Jacqui Slinger, director of academic development services. “Wake up at the same time you normally would if you were here at Bluffton. Shower, eat, check the weather. Keep up a regular routine.”
On my desk, I have my daily schedule written out to remind me when I have class and should be working on classwork. My goal for myself is to work on classwork enough to be ahead in at least some of my classes.
Tip number 2: Find what motivates you.
“What motivated me was life,” said LaShonda Gurley, director to the center for career and vocation, who completed her master’s and P.h.D. through online programs. “It pushed me to be a better and stronger communicator in the written format.
She also suggested to set up video conferences with your friends where you all do homework together. This is so you have a set time where you are doing homework.
For myself, I want to do well in everything I turn in, so not doing homework is not an option; however, this situation is making it hard to stay motivated. I will get it done, I just need to find the balance between when I should do schoolwork or not.
Tip number 3: Have a set place where you do your work.
“You can still navigate life changes,” said Gurley. “This is a lifestyle change. If you have access to the internet and laptop, set up a space—not in your bed.”
For me, I have a table set up in my room where I do my homework and join my Zoom meetings for class. A place where I can do my schoolwork and meet with my class without interruptions is a good way to transition into school mode.
“I think it’s also important that you set up a study area for yourself away from your bed or couch,” said Slinger. “Perhaps set up a work station at the dining room table or in a corner of your living room. Gather supplies, ensure the lighting is good, keep everything in one place.”
Tip number 4: Check Moodle often
“Success in online coursework requires checking Moodle and email often,” said Slinger.
Checking those due dates on Moodle and cross-referencing them with the ones on your syllabus will help you stay up-to-date on your course work. If you have any questions, email your professors as soon as you can.
I am on Moodle every day, and I have my email open on my computer all of the time. This is due to most of my professors either posting Zoom links on Moodle or sending them through email.
Tip number 5: Stay connected with your friends.
Remote learning is hard enough, and life as a college student gets even harder when you don’t see your friends every day, but we live in a time where conference calls are available to us. Do what you can to connect with your friends while at home.
“Stay in touch with your friends and supportive faculty/staff,” said Slinger. “While we’re usually encouraging folks to lighten up on the social media, checking in with your Bluffton peeps and homies may help keep your spirits up.”
I have FaceTimed my friends a couple of times already because it has helped get the social interaction I need to stay sane. I look forward to my classes that do use Zoom to meet remotely. This is because I have that human interaction with my peers giving the situation a little more normalcy.
Remote learning may seem like a challenge now, but there are still ways to be a successful student given the circumstances.
