As high schools (and colleges) pivot to online learning platforms for what looks like the remainder of the academic year, many people worry about productivity. How will they remain engaged? Will it be so much less useful than in-person classes? I think most of us can agree that there are many advantages to actual, face-to-face contact. Humans are pack animals and they crave human interaction. Having said that, I’ve worked with students remotely for years and I can say, with very few exceptions, that my remote sessions are just as productive as my in-person sessions. It’s all in how you approach those sessions.
Are you “phoning it in” or are you really showing up? I ask this question of students and teachers because this proposition simply won’t work without a commitment on both ends. For the purpose of this post, however, I’ll address the students. How do you make the most of online learning? While the following advice might seem obvious, you’d be surprised how many people don’t take it seriously. I’m going to summarize a recent article from the Harvard Flyby on this subject because hey, if it came from Harvard, it must be important … right? Here’s the link: https://www.thecrimson.com/flyby/article/2020/3/27/how-to-remote-learning-productivity/
Use a designated work space. Your area should be as distraction free as possible and conducive to learning. If you need to put your phone in another room to stay off it during your sessions then do so. Ask your parents and other family members not to disturb you while you’re “in class.” Remind them that they wouldn’t be able to ask you to fold your laundry if you were in school at that time.
Take breaks as necessary. Just as you’d walk between classes, it’s important to get up and stretch your legs and get your blood flowing. It’s also important to stay fed and hydrated. Don’t we all think better when we’re not hungry?!
Dress for class! There’s so much to be said for dressing the part - studies even show it. If you wouldn’t wear it to class at school, don’t wear it to your virtual class.
Stay in touch with your teachers and go to virtual office hours if they are offered. In college, the single most underutilized resource is a professor’s office hours. I told my students at Georgetown and I tell my students now - make the effort to get to know your teachers! Your grades will reflect the extra effort as you will no doubt learn more by being more personally engaged. Besides … who knows when you might need a letter of recommendation?!
Please feel free to reach out if you’re having trouble adjusting to your new groove. I’m happy to help and am sure that you’ll get the hang of things very soon!
