First Week of Online Class, What Should You Do

A lot of online courses are available. That’s great news because these classes could be taken whenever and wherever you are available (as long as there is an internet connection). But of course, you should still take it seriously if you want to get good grades.   

In the first week of your online class, we recommend that you do the following so you will be able to maximize the learnings. And at the same time, adjust your schedules so you will not have a hard time balancing your life. This is beneficial for parents taking online classes and for those with jobs.   

Clear Your Week’s Schedule   

If you will ask us, the first week is crucial because, as we’ve said, this will be your adjustment phase. Thus, it would be great if you clear your week. You can either take a leave from work or have a babysitter, so you can focus on the requirements for your class.   

Create Your Weekly Schedule   

Usually, with online classes, you’d still have assignments and reports to finish. During the first week, you’d gauge how many hours you need to allot for the extra schoolwork. With that information, try to plot your schedule. That way, you can request some adjustments from your superior, or you will be able to hire a babysitter during your classes plus the hours that you need to finish your papers.   

Simply put, organize and finalize your schedule first so that it will be easier for you in the coming weeks.   

Familiarize with the Online Platform  

If there are special learning platforms for your online course, make sure that you understand how to use it. Fortunately, most of these platforms use intuitive web design and are easy to understand. Nevertheless, some features can be confusing. Use the first week to figure everything out.  

Adjust Your Resources Such as Gadgets and Internet Connection   

Even if you think you have the right resources and materials for your online class, you can only find out if these are enough once you are already attending your course. For the first week, try to observe if you are experiencing lag in your connection or if your computer can’t handle a lot of files. If yes, then it is high time for you to have an upgrade.   

Now, it doesn’t mean that you need to buy a new computer as that could eat up a lot from your budget. Just look for someone that could upgrade your device so you can study more efficiently.   

Participate in Your Class   

If you need to meet as a class virtually, make sure that you actively participate during the first week. It’s a great technique if you want your professors to notice you. Believe it or not, it can be your edge. Answer when you can, and ask if there are points for clarification.    

Meet Your Professors and Peers   

Even if you are studying virtually, make sure that you establish connections not just with your instructor but also with your peers. That way, you can easily reach out to them if you are having challenges with the subjects. If possible, add them in Messenger, Viber, WhatsApp, or whatever messaging app you are both comfortable with. In addition, some of them might create a group for all the course takers. Join them so you will be updated even if you are busy with work or parenting duties.   

Set Up Your Study Area   

You should have done this prior to the start of your class. However, we realize that some online learners tend to change their study area once the actual classes start. If you feel you need to rearrange your space or your room, then go ahead. But try not to move your study area near your bed where you can be extremely comfortable.   

Prepare Yourself Emotionally and Mentally   

Apart from the physical preparation, make sure that you are now mentally and emotionally prepared to take on online courses. Some people might think that this is easy considering that you don’t have to travel. But what they don’t know is that you chose that option because you have work, or you are parenting your kids.  

Let’s be honest here. Studying can be exhausting, and it can certainly affect your mood. Meditation and proper breathing exercises can help. Practice those for now, and you will be able to balance your new life as a student at home.