Create Your Learning Space

It's important to take into consideration the different methods you will be learning in each of your classes and construct a beneficial learning environment for yourself as you transition to in-person learning.

As a reminder, your ultimate goal in any learning environment is to continue to learn new things, try new approaches, and find new ways to engage with the material, your classmates, and instructor. The various instructional models classes will take are described below, as are some tips for optimizing your learning space!

Creating Your Learning Space

When learning at home, It is essential that you set up a space that feels comfortable, is quiet and with limited distractions, and allows you to focus on your classwork, lectures, and studying.

Quick tips:

  • If at all possible use a desk or table and a chair. Sometimes your bed is the only quiet place you have. If that is the case, simply set yourself up so you are propped up and can use your computer/laptop/phone with ease.

  • If you have them, use headphones to mute surrounding noises.

  • Limit distractions:

        • Put away that cell phone!

        • Pause social media (it will be there when you get back).

        • Don’t multitask even though it is tempting.

        • Exit non-essential browsers as it may slow your internet speed.

        • Let folks in your space know when you are “in class” and studying.

  • Get up and get dressed. Best to not attend class in your PJs!

Inside the Virtual “classroom”

Though you may not be physically on campus in a classroom, in remote classes you are still in class. Reading and writing, online lectures (via Zoom or Google Hangouts) are the main ways you'll communicate in a remote learning classroom.

Although some hard copies of textbooks may still be required, you should be prepared to access classroom materials online. Course materials can still be purchased from the Bay Tree Bookstore.

Quick Tips:

  • Read the syllabus carefully! Note remote library access and information on disability accommodations.

  • Take notes when you’re reading or watching lectures. Write down what you don’t understand.

  • Get into the discussion forums. Comment on things you find interesting, relevant, or confusing.

  • Ask questions (unmute yourself first! Or use the chat function). You’ll soon see you’re not the only one seeking answers.

  • Be helpful when you can — the confidence gained from helping others succeed is a great motivator for success.

  • Learn how to watch video lectures, how to submit assignments, how to take exams, how to move from one module to the next, what’s happening this or next week…All of this information is available in Canvas.

Technology and Internet Access

Do you have the tools you need?

Check in with your instructor. What kind of computer, laptop, or tablet do you need? What software do you need? Is there adequate internet access in your remote location? Check out this collection of tech resources.

Some tips from the ITS website:

  • A few options if you need to establish network connectivity from off campus are Comcast, Cruzio, AT&T, Charter Communications, and Google Fi. Please contact the companies directly to arrange for services and make sure to ask for student discounts!