Organization for Remote Learning

Be organized

• It’s more important now than ever to stay on top of assignments, exams, and due dates. Use a To-Do list. 
• Online courses generally require more self-discipline from students; recognize that and approach your new learning situations with a positive attitude.
• Find the best way for you to keep track of things (planner, calendar, app, etc.) Check out this assignment planner. 
• Think about the amount of time you normally spend devoted to your coursework and try to maintain that consistently. 
• Schedule in time to spend (or communicate virtually) with friends and family. Humans are social creatures, so even if you can’t physically be with your loved ones, check in on them and don’t neglect your relationships. Try using this 7-day, hourly planner.

Set SMART goals and use a reward system to keep yourself motivated and avoid burnout.

• Make your rewards unique to you, something that you truly enjoy and will motivate you to complete your tasks. Use this helpful guide to break down your work. 

Go through the same rituals as you normally would.

• Getting up at a regular time, eating breakfast, getting dressed, and completing coursework at consistent times can help you stay on track and be more productive throughout the day.

Try to identify all course changes and write them down.

An example could look like this:

Discuss Schedules and Expectations with Your Family or Roommates

• If you are living back at home or if you are living in an apartment with roommates, you need to have a discussion about what each of you need to adjust to new schedules and these changing times. Ask them how you can help them and explain to them how they can help you.

• Prepare for this discussion by computing the amount of time that you will need to for coursework and other tasks. If you have regular online meetings, include that in the schedule with a description of the need you have for a quiet space or a room without activity for video meetings. With specific descriptions, your family and/or roommates will have a clearer idea of why you need what you are requesting.

• Are your family members or roommates also in school? Suggest doing schoolwork during the same hours so that none of you are tempted to socialize during those times. Perhaps that isn’t feasible because of space or technology needs. Develop a schedule for favored work spacing or technology resources.
• If you are living in a household with young children or others who require care, work out a schedule for care-giving so that one person is the designated care-giver during different parts of the day.