5 Tips for Being a Successful Distance Learning Student

by Tania Dooley

     For many of us, the change from face to face learning to distance learning has been an interesting experience, from feeling excitement from anticipating what it's going to look like, to feeling frustration in trying to navigate all the different new platforms, apps, or programs required to learn to do the work.  

StartUpStockPhotos via Pixabay

Although we have digital tools and were already using technology daily, still going from one format for to another in a short period of time has been challenging.  Even though this may be the case for some initially, there are some students thriving under these circumstances, having an even better ability to concentrate and perform.  If that's you, you're well on your way to becoming successful at distance learning, if this is not you, here are some tips to make your learning experience better. 

1. Maintain a schedule.  Make a commitment to set aside a particular amount of time each day, at the same time each day for schoolwork.  Morning time is probably the best given that for years our internal clocks are aligned to a traditional school schedule which begins in the morning.  For some people their minds are fresh and ready to learn and become productive. 
2. Free yourself from distractions.  Find a small niche in your home to help you concentrate, whether that is a corner, or a kitchen table, or outside.  In that place you set aside for yourself, have your TV off, and if it distracts you too much, set aside your phone. Not only will minimizing distractions help you concentrate, it will also free you from unnecessary mistakes in your work. 
3. Communicate with teachers. Remote or distance learning is new for both students and teachers.  The more you communicate with your teachers, the better they will understand the appropriateness of the amount of work, the pacing, and the content being assigned.  The communication and feedback during this time is absolutely invaluable.
4. Take ownership of your learning goals.  There are goals teachers set for you and there are goals you can set for yourself.  Especially in the higher grades, 7-12, you can set a goal to begin and finish a book, to do more creative things, and even to look ahead at the school you might be getting into when things start normalizing.  These small steps are part of taking ownership of your own learning goals.
5. Do the best you can.  Find the way that works best for you, either doing the work that is easiest first, checking that off, then focusing on more difficult content, or the other way around. 

   

   Checklist by Tumisu via Pixabay

   Before even thinking about giving up on something altogether, reach out to other teachers when you have concerns about your classes. If you are logging in every day, are engaged with the work, emailing questions, and even submitting work, that is some evidence of trying.

by Gerd Altmann via Pixabay

     Teachers realize that this new form of schooling has been unprecedented and in light of that are working tirelessly to develop new ways of delivering lessons.  They understand that the shift from the classroom environment to the digital environment is a process in itself and therefore are giving students time to get used to that as well.  There is a learning curve, it does get better, and it takes a bit of acclimating or getting used, but these small changes or tips are just some of the tools you have for a more successful distance learning experience.  

References
Photos Via Pixabay (StartupStockPhotos, Tumisu, Gerd Altmann).