Top tips for effective online learning

Online learning is becoming more and more common. Whether you're doing it for a few weeks or a few years, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your studies on track. 

We asked our education experts for tips on getting the most out of your virtual classroom.

Create a dedicated study space

Look – studying in front of the TV, while it’s on, just isn’t going get the best results. Choose a place you can focus, remove any distractions and, if possible, keep it separate from your bed or lounge. A clear distinction between where you study and where you take breaks will help you focus. Also turn your phone to airplane mode when you are studying… those texts can wait.

Have a plan

Plan your time effectively so that you are engaging in your course on a regular basis. If you’re at school, a great way to do this is to stick with your regular 9am – 3pm school day (plus assignment and study time, of course). This keeps you in the rhythm (meaning it will be easy to go back to class when the time comes) and sets aside dedicated time for school work. 

If you’re at university, use your calendar and schedule in times and deadlines to watch lectures and complete assignments. This helps ensure that uni won’t become the last thing on your to-do list.

No matter what or where you’re studying, it’s important to set daily goals and deadlines to help keep motivation up and beat procrastination. These should be specific and easy to measure, like “I’ll watch two videos in module three and write 500 words on the first assignment.” 

Get the most out of tech

Familiarise yourself with all the technology that you will be using including your microphone, camera, how to engage in breakout rooms and file-sharing programs.

Handy hint for you: Zoom is great, but many find the gallery view over-stimulating and exhausting when you’re monitoring the visual cues of so many different people. Switch to speaker view, so you’re only seeing one person on screen at a time. 

If you’re an ACU student, don’t forget AskACU staff are available to answer any queries you have around tech.

Actively engage in learning

Don’t be afraid to speak up. Your contribution will make a real difference to the class. Use your microphone to contribute to discussions. If you’re using chat, write full sentences, not text message abbreviations, and take notes as you listen. 

Taking notes can promote active thinking, boost comprehension, and extend your attention span. It’s a good strategy to internalise knowledge, whether you’re learning online or in the classroom. 

Make yourself accountable

Tell your friends and family about the subjects you’re taking, the assignments you’re working on and post achievements to your social media accounts.

Having a community and support network to encourage you will make a big difference. 

Take breaks

Stand up and stretch every 20 minutes. Your body will be grateful, and your brain will be re-oxygenated. If you’re struggling with a task, walk outside, take a shower, or talk with a friend – it can re-energise you and may even give you new ideas on how to take on that project.

Sitting at your desk and staring at a screen for six hours straight isn’t conducive to focus. Step away, rest and refresh regularly throughout the day. 

Positive mindset

It’s completely normal for studies to get a little overwhelming at times, but this isn't helpful as a long-term mindset. Try and foster a positive attitude and be flexible and open. No one expects you to be perfect at online study – there are going to be hiccups. 

Ask for help

Don’t be frightened to reach out to your parents, friends, teacher, lecturer or tutor if you don’t understand the content or need some help. 

If you’re studying at ACU, please remember that we have plenty of resources and step-by-step guides available 24/7 at AskACU. 

Thinking about the future? Explore our courses.