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Ten Tips for Online Learning from Center for Student-Athlete Success

Student-Athletes

Pottruck CSAS | March 24, 2020

PHILADELPHIA - Penn's Center for Student-Athlete Success has created these ten tips to help student-athletes with online learning. For additional information, please visit the Weingarten Learning Resources Center Blog

10 Tips for Online Learning
  1. Create time boundaries
  • Utilize a weekly calendar to create a new academic routine
  • Set aside dedicated time to absorb class materials
  • Be disciplined, if you are going to review materials for 90 minutes, do it!
  • Be aware of all dates & deadlines, and add them to your calendar
  1. Create daily reminders or checklists
  • Set alarms or reminders for each of your classes
  • Create specific checklists so you can accomplish assignments on time
  • Check in with classmates, help each other with reminders and due dates
  1. Daily Canvas and email checks
  1. Understand your new class structure
  • Re-read the syllabus or note any changes
  • Class will be synchronous or asynchronous or a combination of both
    • Synchronous: live, real-time sessions that require attendance and are held in a web-based video conferencing platform (Zoom, Blue Jeans, Google Hangout, Skype)
    • Asynchronous: no real-time meeting required, can work through course materials at their own pace meeting course deadlines
    • Combination of both: professors can post their course materials (asynchronous) and host live sessions (synchronous).
  • Become more comfortable utilizing different forms of technology
  1. Make things easily accessible
  • Organize your files/workspace to access course materials quickly
  • Update your Canvas and Email applications on your devices
  • Use Google or other cloud technology to auto-save your work
  • Create bookmarks for commonly accessed websites and materials
  1. Start small
  • Doing something is better than doing nothing
    • Example: if you plan to solve 10 problems, try to do at least 3 or 4. If you plan to read an entire article, read a few pages
  • Try to break down material into smaller sections
  • Most recorded video lectures can be paused, or the speed can be changed - make sure to use these features to your advantage
  • Control your time by creating manageable chunks of study time
  • Develop self-imposed due dates to complete materials in smaller doses
  1. Find a distraction-free environment at home or locally
  • Designate a space to complete work and remain focused
  • Make your school/study schedule known to others to avoid distractions
  • Take breaks, eat a snack, get exercise, and return with a renewed focus
  • If you share a space, try using noise-canceling headphones or listening to instrumental music while you work
  1. Stay connected and ask questions
  • Participate in discussions, forums, or online sessions to stay engaged
  • If you don't know what you should be doing, ASK!
  • Reach out to the following if you need further clarification:
    • Professors & Teaching Assistants
    • Canvas Support
    • School Advisor
    • Student-Athlete Success contact
  • Form a study group of 3-5 students
  • Decide on the time and purpose of the group such as:
    • Discussing course content (if permissible)
    • Organizing and capturing information from lectures
    • Asking questions for clarity and to test each other
  1. Test preparation for online learning
  • Plan and prepare in advance
  • Test your internet speed and connectivity before taking an exam
  • Review all testing guidelines for online exams prior to starting
  • Know expectations of the exams before you begin
  • Know exactly when the testing window is open and length of window
  • Find a quiet, distraction-free location to take the exam
  • Don't begin the exam until you are organized
  • Don't forget to press submit
  1. Use your online resources
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