Online Learning Strategies
Check Brightspace and your NC student email every day.
Important announcements, updates and revised course plans will be posted on Brightspace and sent to you through your NC student email. Examine all Course Recovery Documents carefully and be sure to check for any new dates and deadlines.
Make a study plan and stick to it.
Set small goals to tackle your work, and ensure they are achievable. Stay organized and create a schedule with dates and times for tasks that need to be completed. However, plan for some wiggle room as things will come up and you will need to readjust your schedule. As you complete tasks, check them off. This will help you feel like you are accomplishing your tasks and help motivate you to continue.
Eliminate distractions.
This includes social media. Turn off your phone and your notifications while you are studying. Remember to carve out time to connect with friends as well – it will be important to stay connected to others! Define your objectives for uninterrupted work time, and be sure to take breaks. Use apps that can help eliminate distractions by blocking the apps or websites that compete for your attention.
- The Learning Portal: Getting Things Done
- Get Cold Turkey (distraction blocker)
Take notes.
As you read and watch videos, take notes just as you would if you were in the classroom setting. If you learn better as an auditory learner, read the articles and slides out loud.
Form online study groups.
Although meeting in person is not possible at this time you can arrange group chats where you can still have conversations about the material you are learning. You can use Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp, or Discord – whatever it takes to build a study group or community to stay connected, ask questions, and be accountable.
Practice self-care and mindfulness.
If you can only study for an hour at a time and retain information, then stop and take a break. Be mindful of when you study best as well. If you work best in the morning, set aside time to work on your projects or chat with peers then.
