How To Study Better Online?
by the Academic Office, Sunway College Kuching.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, schools and universities are still required to hold a majority of their classes online. For most of us, that means that for over a year, we’ve been forced to adapt to the new learning format of online learning. Online learning isn’t for everyone, and it especially isn’t easy for college students like yourselves who look forward to vibrant campus lives and meeting new friends, and experiencing new things. However, given the situation, we have to do the best we can to adapt and stay on top of our studies. Here are some quick tips that we learned from teaching online for over a year that we’d like to share with you.
1. Create a study space for yourself
In the usual classroom setting, students like yourselves find it easier to focus because of the orderly environment, and more engaging teaching from lecturers who are able to communicate with you face-to-face. Unfortunately, that level of engagement is not fully achievable through online classes. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t do something to reduce distractions and create a more focused study environment. First things first, try to find a dedicated space for you to study, a corner of your bedroom or study room works well. The goal here is to have a dedicated study space that you can go to when you need to get in the zone and attend classes or catch up on assignments. Also, remember to keep your study space clean and free of distractions. Clear out any loose papers used for scribbling down notes at the end of each study session to keep things organized. That way, you’d be more motivated to return to your study space for the next study session.
2. Interact with your lecturers and peers regularly
Another downside of not being able to go to campus is not being able to ask your lecturers questions in person, or hanging out with friends after class for group study sessions, or chilling at the student lounge. However, there’s a way to mitigate this and also make it easier for you to warm up to your new friends once you get to meet them in person. Try to ask your lecturers questions during live lectures instead of by e-mail where possible. That way, your lecturer will feel more engaged in the classroom, as there are students actively responding to their lessons. Also, try to keep your camera on during live lectures so your lecturers can see your facial expressions while they teach. When it comes to friends, your lecturers while try to break the ice between new students by introducing you to each other with group projects. Try to find things in common with your peers so you have things to talk about outside of class, and find activities that you both enjoy doing online, like playing video games, or watching movies. Just because you can’t head to the cinema with your friends to catch a movie in the past doesn’t mean you can’t do it virtually.
3. Pace yourself and take breaks
Taking breaks is important, which is why you will find yourself having half days of class most of the time. The downtime can be used to explore personal interests, hang out with friends, or even do class assignments. Whatever the case, taking breaks makes sure you don’t burn out while studying in college. Now that most classes are held online, it’s especially important to take regular breaks, because you would be forced to stare at a computer screen a lot longer than you’re used to. In between classes, be sure to take your eyes off the screen, stretch a little, or even go for a quick walk around your house or neighborhood. Taking regular breaks helps keep you focused for longer while you’re taking online classes.
That’s all we have for you for now. If these suggestions worked for you, be sure to share it with your lecturer, or even let us know some of your personal tips that help you study better online. Who knows? You may even be featured in our next issue!
