It is no secret that many students feel overwhelmed when they make a sudden transition to online learning.

Learning online can present challenges. However, here are some tips and strategies that USF Instructional Technology faculty members James Hatten and SanghoonPark, PhD recommend to help you navigate the transition to online learning.

You can set yourself up to succeed from the beginning

1. Set up a learning environment conducive to productivity

It's not ideal to do your assignments in a lazy position while simultaneously watching Netflix. Dr. Hatten, a specialist in online teaching and learning, suggests that students choose a space in their own homes that is free from distractions.

Dr. Hatten said, "The couch may not be the best place for you to be at." "Get up, get out of your chair and find a place in the house where you can work."

2. You should establish a schedule to complete and review assignments

A person can experience high levels of stress if they are doing three different courses at once. But this can easily be avoided by setting aside specific times for each class. Dr. Hatten shared one example: working on one course between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. This schedule allows students the opportunity to create a structure not possible with traditional in-person classes.

Dr. Hatten explains, "My belief that most people end-up either procrastinating (or getting too involved) that they won’t shut off (their computers)." "Set a time."

You should also set aside some time each week for reviewing the assignments. You won't forget to turn in something if you do this.

3. Try to have virtual conversations with your peers

It's not possible to study in a group with your peers or get on-the spot clarifications from your classmates while you are away. To maintain that sense if collaboration and community, you can form virtual interactions using platforms such as GroupMe and Microsoft Teams.

4. You can use the "chunking" strategy to break down tasks

Chunking refers to a method of breaking down large tasks or large amounts information into smaller units. Dr. Hatten suggests students "chunk", instead of staring at a computer screen for 3 hours.

Dr. Hatten states that you should work on one subject, then find a task to complete and reward yourself at completion. "What I mean is that you should get up and have some coffee. Get a snack. Go for a run. You can then come back to do the next portion.

Find ways to stay motivated

Although there are many ways to build a routine, and to maintain productivity, it is possible to lose motivation and find yourself struggling to complete your task. Dr. Park's research centers on motivational strategies for online learners. He explains the reasons why this may happen to students.

He states that online courses basically means you're learning apart from others. "The feeling of being isolated from your peers and your instructors, that physical and emotional distance, can cause many motivational issues."

Dr. Park suggests that people first recognize when motivation is low, and then find the cause. These are some of the strategies Dr. Park recommends for students.

5. Try to increase your interest and passion for the work

You may find it tedious to go over an assignment or task. Instead of just ignoring the problem and moving on, think about ways you can make the task more engaging. This strategy allows you to use your imagination and modify the work you submit.

6. Your online work should be made more personal.

Feeling disconnected to a task or assignment can cause a lack of motivation. Dr. Park advises students confronted with this feeling to look at how they can use the assignment in the future.

Dr. Park explained that it is important to link the task to your interests. If you're a graduate, you might consider using the completed assignments or tasks to present at the conference.

7. You can imagine yourself on a path towards mastery.

This type of talk happens when you are able to speak loudly about the goals that you want to achieve. The conversation can start with this question: What will this assignment accomplish for me?

Dr. Park shares an example of how answering this question can lead to a continuous answer that begins with the credit you earned for the assignment and continues with your grade from taking the course. Finally, Dr. Park will share the path to landing the job you want after graduation.

Dr. Park says, "Thinking in this way leads you to think: This isn't something I must do. This is something that I need to accomplish my goals." Keep to bookmarks article from globalhack about online class helpers - https://globalhack.org/articles/best-online-class-help-services/ 

Keep a positive mindset

8. You can solve your own problems

When you are adjusting to working online, remember to read the instructions and go through each module thoroughly. While professors are available to answer your questions, you may find it more productive to send multiple emails to each problem, rather than sending them all at once.

9. Focus on Your Self-Care

It's perfectly acceptable to be away from your computer for a couple of hours or to have a rest day. You shouldn't feel guilty about taking the time to heal.

10. Give compassion to others

Be aware that others are going through the exact same experiences as you. You should be patient with people who don't know how video chats work or who are struggling to adjust to the "new normal".

Related Resources:

Tips for Taking Online Courses 
Tips For Taking Online Classes 
Tips on Taking Online Class 
10 TIPS TO SUCCESS IN ONLINE CONTESTS