One of the biggest challenges regarding online classes is staying focused and productive. Whether it be Netflix, online shopping, or social media, it is super easy to get distracted with all of the things around us. It is important to create a balance between self-instruction and leisure time when it comes to online classes. With these few tips and tricks, you will have some spare time and keep on track with your classes.
Something that helps me concentrate and make my online classes speed by is listening to music. There are hundreds of studies that prove listening to music while doing work not only improves the quality of your work but makes the time go by quicker while you do it. However, the type of music you listen to might impact your productivity. Listening to music with lyrics can be distracting, especially if you are reading. Try listening to music that is relaxing and does not have any lyrics. Lo-fi beats on Spotify is a great playlist with a handful of options.
Being organized and sticking to a schedule is another important factor when it comes to studying online. Creating a schedule does not mean you have to wake up at 7 am every morning and work all day. I like to create my schedules around my own personal comfort zone. I’ll schedule my toughest work when I feel the most energized and concentrated. That way, I can get the tough work out of the way and save the easier work for another time. I also schedule breaks for coffee or food, which helps me stay organized and on track with my day.
An essential part of staying productive for my online classes includes finding a comfortable workspace. Personally, I can’t lay in bed and do homework. When studying from home, it is very important to designate a work area specifically for homework and studying. So, whenever you sit down in this area to do work, your brain has external signals that it is time to be productive. This area can be anywhere in your house, but not somewhere that you relax and unwind. The desk in your room or the kitchen table are great spots in your home to sit down and get work done. Organize the area with the necessary supplies for your schoolwork and studying will get done in no time.
Another important aspect of continuing to be productive during online learning is to keep in touch with your classmates. If you are in a class where you are normally sharing notes and collaborating on ideas, keep it up while you’re at home. Using either Zoom or Facetime, you and your fellow classmates can help each other get through these difficult times. Try and schedule a time that works for everyone to have group discussions about the classwork. Working as a team and helping each other can boost productivity and increase your social interactions.
Remaining productive during online instruction can be difficult. With the end of the semester rapidly approaching and the many distractions around us at home, it can be hard to motivate ourselves to get school work done. However, implementing these tips into your everyday routine can ensure more productive study time while you adjust to this new way of learning.
PHOTO COURTESY of Monmouth University
