HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY PREPARE FOR ONLINE LEARNING AS A STUDENT.

It seems that the future of learning is virtual. The online/e-learning boom caused by the 2020 pandemic is apparently here to stay. Research suggests that online learning leads to an increase in information retention and reduces comprehension time for students. In many countries today, schools are still closed due to coronavirus. This means as a student; online learning is slowly becoming part of the norm.

The University of Lagos(Unilag) recently closed its doors for another round of online classes. School authorities took swift action after its medical center identified new covid cases. Virtual classes are set to resume on the 26th of June, 2021.

Students may be experiencing whiplash from the switch from physical to online classes, but you need not worry. Catalyst is here to help you out.

If you missed our last post on this subject, we would be discussing new tips to help you prepare for online learning as a student.

1) Set up a study group online

Set up a group with your friends and coursemates to go over lecture notes, assignments, and materials. Having a group like this will help you keep each other accountable. It will also put in place a system of checks and balances, so everyone is carried along. Things you can do

• Share relevant materials, articles, textbooks related to your course
• Conduct mock examinations and tests
• Have mock classrooms where one person explains a concept or topic to test each other’s knowledge
• Solve assignments and past questions as a group
• Hold group reading sessions.

2) Get in touch with a good tutor.

If you struggle with a particular course or topic, find someone to explain and break it down for you thoroughly. The best option is to get signed up with a tutorial hosted by a reliable organization. For example, Catalyst has started its virtual tutorials. To find out more information, click here. Savvy students may even be able to earn an extra income by organizing tutorials for their mates.

3) Engage your parents to keep you accountable

Being at home, it can be easy to give in to laziness and procrastination. One thing you can do, if you think you need that extra push, is to ask your parents, guardians, or other people you live with to call ask about your work from time to time. Their reminders will keep you on your toes and will help you to focus.

4) Practice makes perfect

We cannot stress enough the importance of daily practice. Learning virtually means you will be testing on your school’s portal or through written papers. Take time daily to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of your portal. If your course requires you to write many academic papers, find something to write about to sharpen your skills. Solve questions in your material and PQs.

5) Check your course group daily

Make sure you don’t miss out on important updates by checking your course group chats daily. It is where class reps will pass across critical information about materials, tests, and examinations. Ensure you have good internet access to keep abreast with on-goings.

6) Make good use of your flexible schedule

The nature of online learning means you will have a lot of extra time. You can put time not spent waiting in between classes or in transit to use productively in other areas. You can create a schedule to plan time for reading or studying. Use this time to catch up on courses you may be behind in or get ahead in others. Proper time management is the key to success.

7) Take time off

Remember to take time off for your personal well-being. Exercise, check up on family and friends, watch a movie. It is important to rest well so you can concentrate and be present when you need to.