THE Covid-19 pandemic has forced the educational system to take advantage of the virtual world, taking note of the high risk of students getting sick if they were to go to school and attend their classes. Some schools have started their online classes as early as last June, while other universities kicked off last month and more will start their school years this October after being postponed.
As life goes on even with the continuing health crisis, online classes improve the levels of safety among students in the continuation of learning. But it has also met some criticism, what with the country’s intermittent internet connection and many students’ lack of access to electronic gadgets. Apart from this, the Department of Health in a recent article noted that online classes may result in “feelings of isolation” for some students due to the lack of face-to-face interaction.
Nothing beats going to school and taking part in various learning activities together with the “physical presence” of classmates, friends and teachers. But for now, one must not just simply wave the white flag and sulk helplessly. Here are helpful tips on how to keep one’s sanity in the midst of online learning.
Stick to a schedule
Online learning can be overwhelming as tasks may come in bulk and you sometimes immediately lose focus and get overwhelmed. During your enrollment, you are furnished with a copy of your class schedule. Stick to it. For example, do not do tasks intended for another course at 9 a.m., when you are scheduled to attend a lecture of another course schedule for that specific time.
Take breaks
Schedule everything, including much-needed breaks. Take a breather, and when we mean “breather,” we mean taking some minutes off from the computer or mobile phone screen.
Find time to exercise
Sitting in front of the computer for hours can be unhealthy. You may need to do some exercise while keeping yourself safe. Do some stretching during your breaks. On weekends, you could go brisk walking early in the morning or biking around the neighborhood, following health protocols, of course.
Talk to someone
This is where family comes in and this may be true not just for online learners but also those who “work from home.” Open communication among family members gives the feeling of reassurance and support. The stress that might be caused by attending school online should not affect family ties and make sure you have each other’s back. Get in touch with friends by calling them. This way you get a sense of their presence just by listening to their voices. If you have the chance, talk to your teachers too.
Mind conditioning
If your brain has been “programmed” to the thought of an academic freeze and nothing will come out good from a distant learning approach, then you will never pick up something valuable from the experience. If you think it is all just for the requirement, then each assignment and conference session will all be burdensome. Clear your minds from the cobwebs of negativity and think that this can be done and you can still get something valuable from learning online, then you might find some enjoyment and fulfillment in it.