I think I should begin with the fact that online learning is new to almost all of us.

To be taken from the comfort zone of face-to-face learning with educators and friends, to suddenly be thrust into the world of online learning has been daunting. 

The idea that one won’t have face-to-face learning is difficult to get to grips with, that being said there are many advantages of learning online.

Advantages of online learning

• I am able to do lessons at convenient times. 
• I can learn at my own pace – with pre-recorded lessons I can pause and replay, allowing for better clarity.
• I feel resource sharing is perhaps the most powerful part of online learning. With screensharing during live lessons, I have access to my own unobstructed view of the content. 
• It has decreased distractions during lessons (and I can’t hear my classmates talking in the row behind me). 
• I can listen to one person at a time and mute unnecessary noise. 
• I can study from the comfort of my own home instead of having to commute. This has freed up a lot of time for me to spend on other activities such as spending time with family and exercising. 
• I feel that I take in content more efficiently online, meaning that I spend less time having to study.

With that being said, online learning has come with its difficulties.

Disadvantages of online learning

• I sometimes feel removed and isolated from my classmates.
• Staying motivated and on top of my work has been difficult.
• I’ve experienced technical difficulties such as poor connection and glitchy software, which made submitting assignments or following a lecture a living nightmare. 
• On occasion I’ve been easily sidetracked due to distractions in my home environment. 

Here are some ideas that I found helped me get through my first semester online.

Tips for online learners

1. If possible, create a designated workstation that is quiet and organised. 
2. Try and maintain a routine and create a schedule both inside and outside of learning (learning should take place when you are most comfortable during the day – don’t feel bound by a strict schedule).
3. Set small and achievable tasks that must be completed each day. This helps build confidence.
4. Try distance yourself from distractions. This includes turning off phones and notifications while working. 
5. Do not hesitate to contact your online support team if you are struggling with technical difficulties. 
6. Reach out to your classmates – remember that you are a part of a class/ bigger body of learners who are facing the same challenges as you. 

Ultimately my first semester, whilst having hiccups along the way, has shown me that online learning is nothing to be dreaded, but rather something to be embraced.

Book Village is joining the online revolution. Want to get on board? Contact us on our social media platforms for more information.