Some classes look a little different this fall, as they’re being taught partially or fully online. For students taking virtual courses, one professor has a few tips he hopes will result in a successful semester.
“All of the classes I’m teaching this fall are virtual, which is new for me,” said Mark Barry, UA professor of advertising and public relations. “So I’ve been reading and attended several virtual conferences this summer to try and figure out what I can do to best prepare myself and make it a positive experience for everyone.”
Barry put together a list of six simple things students can do to get the most out of virtual learning.
Get Out of Bed – “Don’t work where you sleep. If you attend class on a mattress surrounded by fluffy pillows and a big cozy comforter, you’re training your brain that your bed is where you are supposed to be thinking about stuff. Trouble sleeping will follow. Sitting up in bed doesn’t count. Get off the bed entirely.”
Find Your Workspace – “Got a spare room to use as an office? Lucky you. Kitchen table? Fantastic. Emptied closet transformed into a tiny computer lab? Amazing. But once again, perched up on your bed ain’t it. On the floor against bed? That’ll work. Just as long as you understand that it’s essential to specify a space for learning and working.”
Practice Rituals – “Repeating certain behaviors can help you efficiently slip into specific mental, physical and emotional spaces. Discover the routines that help you get ready for class. Get out of bed, do some yoga, shower, get dressed, make a smoothie and “go” to class. Whatever works for you, just make sure it’s repeatable.”
Find Your Focus – “No doubt, today’s phones are indeed a wonder –- the world is at our fingertips. Focusing on anything else, however, is almost impossible when our phones are nearby. Putting your phones on silent during class isn’t enough. Turning them off is a good start. Turning them off and sticking them way in the back of your sock drawer is better.”
Get Some Rest – “We used to be able to relax by hopping on social media, Netflix or whatever. Now? Class is on a screen. Homework? Screen. Chatting with your friends? Yep, screen. Make sure your new relaxing routines have some non-screen-based time too. Take a walk. Work on your flying crow pose. Build a desk so you don’t have to sit on your bed.”
Follow the Rules – “Google ’10 Rules for Teachers and Students.’ They originated as part of a class project by teacher and artist, Sister Corita Kent, in 1967. They were later popularized by and attributed to (see: stolen) renowned composer, John Cage. Read them. Inject them directly into your bloodstream. Tattoo them on your back.”