Remote learning has been gaining traction for over a decade now.
However, the coronavirus took what had been a gradual process and cranked it up to warp speed.
Institutions that had previously looked down on the idea of distance learning suddenly found themselves leaning on it entirely.
While the pandemic will eventually fade into the rearview mirror, the effects on remote learning probably will not. Simply put, remote learning is here to stay, and it will likely challenge the entire academic status quo.
With that in mind, here are a few tips for future students to help you not only survive but thrive in a virtual learning space.
Maintain a Growth Mindset
If there’s one thing that’s certain about the future of education, it’s that, well, it is extremely uncertain. If you’re preparing for an unknown future spent in a virtual learning environment, it’s wise to embrace this uncertainty. This starts with a growth mindset, which simply means you’re willing to learn, embrace challenges, and grow through change.
By cultivating a growth mindset, you don’t assume that the future will look a certain way. Instead, you develop a sense of flexibility and adaptability that enables you to overcome whatever unforeseen obstacles may present themselves throughout your academic journey. This is a cornerstone of virtual learning success.
Get Comfortable with Important Digital Interactions
Connectivity is one of the most crucial aspects of success in a virtual learning environment. If you can’t communicate well, you’ll end up cut off and isolated — literally.
You may already feel comfortable with digital interactions in a casual online setting. However, it’s important to consider how you can function when you’re engaging with others to accomplish something important.
As you prepare for the future, take the time to consider the ingredients of effective collaboration. Are you willing to find the best tools to communicate remotely? Do you know how to efficiently transfer information over the cloud? Can you practice active listening on a video chat or phone call?
Address the Details
Major considerations like adaptability and communication are essential. However, it’s also important to take the time to assess and improve your virtual learning behaviors as well.
For instance, you may be able to interact well over a Zoom meeting, but have you considered the finer details that go into video chat etiquette? Even something as simple as choosing a professional background that is neutral with good lighting can make a huge difference in how you present yourself when attending classes online.
Invest in Your Home Study Space
While you’ll have a decent number of interactions with students and professors, at the end of the day, a large portion of your virtual learning journey will be done in the privacy of your own living space. When that’s the case, you should take the time to invest in setting up a quality study space in your home. You can do this by:
- Choosing a specific space that is only for school.
- Keeping your study space clean and decluttered to help you focus.
- Decorating your space with greenery and motivating decor.
- Providing good lighting that helps you stay awake and alert without hurting your eyes.
Dedicating a specific space to learning can help you stay engaged throughout your time in school.
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Lean on Routines
If you’re learning from a distance, it can be difficult to stay motivated. One way to combat this tendency is to set up routines and schedules to help you stay focused throughout your day. The most important routine of them all is how you start your morning. A slow or lazy wake up can set the tone for an unproductive day. Instead, try to create a routine that includes:
- Getting dressed.
- Eating a healthy breakfast.
- Going over your “to-do” list for the day.
- Taking some time to meditate and pray.
- Getting some exercise.
- Engaging your mind by reading or listening to an audiobook.
In addition to this, consider making school and evening routines that also help keep you motivated and on track as you go along.
Learn to Pace Yourself
Finally, remember that, for the most part, you’re going to be learning on your own. This means you’re going to have to learn both how to motivate and regulate yourself. While the former can come through things like routines, self-regulation can be a bit trickier.
It’s easy to work yourself into the ground when you’re operating out of the same space where you eat, sleep, and rest. You can take steps to head off this problem by proactively:
- Taking breaks at least every two hours.
- Unplugging from your electronics from time to time.
- Having a virtual commute to start and end each school day.
Deliberately pacing yourself is a vital step in staying on course as you pursue a multi-year online degree.
other related articles of interest:
Degrees You Didn’t Know You Could Study Online
Make the Switch: Why Online School is the Future of Healthcare Education
Getting Comfortable with Virtual Learning
There’s no doubt that virtual learning is here to stay. If you find that the idea of online school sounds overwhelming, there are many ways to prepare yourself.
From unplugging and pacing yourself to maintaining a growth mindset, there are many ways to brace for the changes ahead. If you can do so, you’ll find that you can overcome even the most intimidating educational challenges when the time comes.
Image Credit: by twenty20.com
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