Strategies you can use to successfully learn online
We’ve all been thrown into a steep learning curve“steep learning curve” idiom = situation where you have to learn a lot of new things quickly over the past year. 2020 was the year when classroom learning moved over to online learning. Not only did we all have to figure out how to access our classes online, we also had to discover the best practices for learning online. Online learning requires time management skills, self-discipline“self-discipline” noun = self-control and the right technology and skills to do the work efficiently“efficiently” adv = being successful without wasting time or energy. However, the expectations for student behaviour“behaviour” noun = a person’s actions have remained somewhat the same. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your online learning experience.
1. Create an Online Study Space
First, I always tell my students to dedicate a specific study space in their home to online learning. It should be sitting on a chair, not a bed or sofa, and you should have a desk. This will help to promote good posture“posture” noun = body position throughout the class and set you up for an appropriate learning space.
A good study space also includes your surroundings“surroundings” noun = the environment around you. It is important to have a quiet space without disruptions“disruptions” noun = things that stop you from paying attention for the duration of your class. If you have family or roommates who generally walk through that space, consider investing in a space divider“space divider” noun 
to have more privacy“privacy” noun = time alone, away from others. Trust me, you will feel more confident speaking in English knowing you are not being watched by family members!
Lastly, a good study space requires good lighting. You should have room lighting at least as bright as your computer screen to avoid eye strain“strain” noun = when something is tired, overused, not working well. Also, other online class members will see you clearly.
2. Manage Your Time
Time management skills are important when you are required to study online. Your class will probably have ‘asynchronous learning’ (work to do outside of class time) as well as ‘synchronous learning’ (time in the online class with your teacher). For synchronous learning, be sure to log in on time. The teacher usually uses the first few minutes to set up the daily objectives“objectives” noun = goals and assign groups for breakout rooms.
For asynchronous learning, you are in control of your own time. My recommendation is to take a short break (20-30 minutes) between synchronous and asynchronous work. Then get back online to work on the asynchronous assignments due“due” adj = needs to be returned, given the next day. It is useful to set a timer and work without stopping for at least 30 minutes. Take a short stretch“stretch” noun 
break and then work for another 30 minutes. Continue this pattern until your asynchronous assignment is complete.
3. Stay on Schedule
Completing an online course successfully requires self-discipline. You have to choose to turn off your online games, keep notifications“notifications” noun = alert, warning, communication for social media sites disabled“disabled” adj = not working, turned off and mute“mute” verb = turn sound off notifications until your work is done. That way, you can reward yourself with all the online fun you love AFTER the work is done. This will happen much more quickly if you have uninterrupted“uninterrupted” adj = no distractions, no stopping time to complete your work. Priority“priority” noun = very important thing number one should be your studies. Otherwise, you can be sure time will slip away and deadlines will approach faster than you can handle.
4. Review the Technology
Learn (and ask about) the technology you will be required to use for the online course. Each instructor uses different software, apps and tools to teach. Find out what you need to use and search for YouTube videos on how to use them effectively“effectively” adv = working very well, successfully. Look for technology shortcuts. This will ensure you use your time wisely when an assignment comes up. You don’t want to be struggling“struggling” verb = having trouble to use an app while trying to complete the work.
5. Improve your Online Classroom Behaviour
Doesn’t it seem like you can show up, turn your video and audio off and just do other things while the instructor is talking? Shouldn’t you be able to stay in your pyjamas“pyjamas” noun 
? What about eating a meal or smoking while in an online class? You are in your own home after all…No, no and no! Ask yourself what would be expected of you if you were attending an in-person class. Would you show up to class not dressed? Eat a meal or smoke while the teacher is talking? Run around doing other things while half-listening? Of course not!
An online class is no different. You are expected to show up, video on, clothes on, sitting at your dedicated workspace, listening and participating. You should always treat your instructor and other classmates with respect. If you must leave the online class to go to the washroom, privately message your teacher so he/she knows where you went. Don’t take calls, don’t chat with friends and don’t play online games in the background.
Best of luck!
Setting yourself up for success in your online course is the best way you can get yourself off to a positive start. Use the tips and strategies“strategies” noun = detailed plans for a goal above to get yourself started on the right foot“start on the right foot” idiom = begin something in the best possible way. Take your skills to the next level. By being organized, self-aware“self-aware” adj = have a good understanding of yourself and an active participant, you will be more likely to have a positive experience and be a successful learner. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and get to know your classmates outside of class time too. Use your network“network” noun = connection, group of friends for support. If you do, you will get the most value out of your next online learning experience.
