Top tips for adapting to remote learning
As the University adapts to teaching online from Trinity term, you might be ahead of the game and working differently or thinking about the adjustments you will need to make. Here are some things you can do to help as you adapt to remote learning.
Find the best space that you can to work in. If you live with others, is there a quieter room that you can use? Can you use headphones or suitable music to cut out any distractions. Ideally you will need a desk or table to work at with good lighting and away for household noise
For help and advice on the technology you need to study efficiently and effectively from home, including remote access and connectivity, refer to this article.
Try to get ready in the morning as you would if you were attending lectures. Getting ready for the day ahead will help you to get into the right mind set.
- Keep in touch. Communicate regularly with your tutors, college welfare or disability staff. Don’t be afraid to let them know if you have any problems. If you are using the Canvas virtual learning environment, make sure your notifications are switched on, preferably to ‘notify me right away’ so that you don’t miss any important course information. Remember to talk to other students.
- Get into a routine. Your time may be more flexible now, so you may find you need to manage it differently. You might like to keep a planner to help you stay on track with your learning and work towards deadlines. Set yourself reminders to complete assignments.
- Take regular breaks. As more happens online, it’s even more important to get up, take your eyes off the screen, and move around. Doing so can also give your brain a chance to consolidate what you’ve learnt.
- Use the resources available to you at the University, such as library resources (or contact your relevant subject library for more information), free or cheap software through the University, and Turnitin (a plagiarism awareness service which can help you to improve your writing and referencing).
- Develop a routine for your work and make time for exercise and activities you enjoy, to contribute to positive mental health. The Counselling Service offers a range of supportive resources and information, and Student Welfare and Support Services are offering online and telephone appointments.
- Be kind to yourself – we are all human and need time to adjust, so take time to try different approaches and find out what works best for you.
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