Tips for setting yourself up for success when working from home

Make yourself cozy, but don’t forget to keep yourself connected and informed

With the increase in online learning taking place right now, it is helpful to have some strategies that will allow you to better navigate hybrid learning formats or solely online learning. Below are some tips on how to handle working and studying from home.

1. Create a designated workspace

It can be tempting to stay snuggled in your bed with your laptop for the entire day while you work/study, but opting to work in a designated place that isn’t where you sleep can help your mind get into study mode more efficiently. Try to find a spot with adequate lighting, enough room to keep your materials clutter-free and organized, and one that includes a comfortable place to sit, or stand, and won’t leave your back, neck, or shoulders hurting by the end of your work period. Don’t forget to take short breaks every so often where you can move around and stretch your body.

2. Actively participate in meetings/lectures

It is important to remember that active participation allows you to grasp course concepts more effectively. In addition, being present and participating in meetings will promote greater visibility and increase your involvement in the decision making process, benefiting both you and your group mates. To keep yourself focused and engaged, it’s helpful to eliminate distractions by turning off your phone and avoiding surfing the web.

3. Familiarize yourself with the learning platform

Webex, Zoom, and CourseLink Virtual Classroom are just some of the many online learning platforms that your instructors might utilize this semester. Learning how these platforms work and how to navigate them will help you use them effectively. Consider doing a trial run with the platform and make sure all your software is up to date before your meetings/lectures.

4. Utilize virtual campus resources

The University of Guelph offers a number of guides and resources for students wanting to learn how to navigate the online learning environment. OpenEd offers a Remote Course Delivery module on their website to assist students in adapting to online instruction. Along with this module, they offer tips and checklists to help manage online learning. The McLaughlin Library website offers a guide regarding online discussions, including how to format them and what to include and exclude.

 

A version of this article appeared in print in The Ontarion issue 189.1 on Aug. 27, 2020.

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