It can be all too easy to lose focus when learning in front of a computer. With an endless list of possible distractions, it can be difficult to stay productive during distance learning. Here are some tips that you can use to help you stay focused during your online lessons so that you can be productive during your distance learning.
Minimize the Distractions
One of the biggest barriers to productivity during distance learning is the number of distractions that are easily accessible. In a traditional classroom, distractions are minimized due to a constructed academic environment. In distance learning, distractions can come from anywhere. Your computer is a gateway to distractions that can keep you from productivity. Your phone, television, and surroundings can often get in the way of being successful in a virtual class.
The best way to increase productivity during distance learning is to minimize these distractions. Make sure that you are in a quiet place when in class and while doing your work. Turn your phone off or place it on the other side of the room to minimize the urge to look at it. Keep background noise like music and television at a minimum. You can use online programs to limit the amount of online surfing you do during distance learning to keep yourself focused on the task at hand. Overcoming distractions can help you learn more during class and complete more work outside of your class time.
Stick to a Schedule
When an online class comes to an end it is easy to shut your computer and move on with your life. Without the external motivation of visiting a traditional classroom, it can be difficult to be productive when you need to be. Establishing a set schedule for work time can help you make the most out of your time and be way more productive.
Consider setting up a work schedule that includes both class time and time to complete work outside of class time. You may find it helpful to plan for an additional hour before your class and an additional hour after to be sure that you have plenty of time to complete the work. Sticking to a set schedule can ensure that you have plenty of time to stay productive despite a world of distractions at your fingertips.
Reach Out for Help
When of the cons of distance learning is the disconnection between student and teacher. Without sharing a physical space it can be difficult to build the connections needed to be academically successful. That is why it is important to make an extra effort to reach out for help when you need it. Putting extra effort into building virtual relationships with your professors can make it easier to reach out for help when it is needed.
Sometimes sending an email seems like exponentially more work than asking a quick question in person after class. However, in distance learning, this is one of your only options to get the assistance you may need or to have your questions answered. To be more successful and productive during distance learning you must make an extra effort to reach out for help when you need it.
Build a Community with Classmates
Distance learning makes it almost impossible to connect with your classmates and build a community that can provide support. Virtual learning can get incredibly lonely, and it may not provide some of the collaborative opportunities that traditional education may provide. Making an extra effort to build community with your classmates can pay dividends throughout the length of your courses.
Building connections with your classmates can open doors to collaboration and may provide everyone with the resources they need to be more productive during distance learning. When asking for help, classmates may be more accessible than your professor, and working together to understand the material can be beneficial for everyone. Putting extra effort into building connections with your classmates can be a valuable endeavor if you are looking to be more productive.
Learn to Take Efficient Notes
Virtual lectures can be easy to tune out. Studies show that it is more difficult to retain information gained from a screen than it is to gain that same information face to face. Humans are social creatures who are far better equipped to learn in person. However, that does not mean that virtual learning cannot be effective. To get the most out of your virtual lectures you need to learn how to take notes that are effective at capturing the information while still being efficient enough to keep up with your professor’s lecture.
There are many note-taking methods that can help you take better notes and retain more information. Find a method that makes the most sense for you and start practicing it immediately. It may be a good idea to set up your notebook ahead of time to ensure that you are ready to take down all the notes you may need once the lecture starts.
Practice Self Care
Distance learning can be an exhausting process. Between staying engaged in your virtual lessons and trying to keep up with the work despite all the distractions around you, distance learning can take a lot of effort. It is important to practice self-care throughout the length of the course to prevent burnout.
When you are not in class, try to step away from the screen and let your eyes rest. Consider giving yourself small rewards when you complete a certain amount of work. Find time to do the things that you love. The best way to stay productive during distance learning is to make sure your mind and body are prepared to learn and engage with the material. The only way to be prepared to do that is to take time to build your energy levels back up through self-care.
Distance learning can be difficult, but with a few small changes, you can thrive in a virtual academic setting.