Online and Class-Time: 6 Tips for Balancing Remote Learning

Technology has been our friend for the last few months. Zoom calls for classes, YouTube for workouts, and Amazon for shopping. This past year has been filled with many hours on our screens; however, when your devices are used for both work and play, there isn’t a lot of time to get away from it all. For myself, and many students across Canada, school has been an operation we’ve had to adapt to. With education switching between in-person and virtual, learning conditions have been changing all the time. Online-learning will surely be a part of our lives for many months to come, so I hope to provide other students with the advice that has helped me stay focused and active during these trying times. 

1. Take the time to contact others

Even though extra phone calls seem counterintuitive, they provide a recess from hours of isolated work. Interacting with friends and family in a socially distant manner can provide a bit of normalcy to the hectic situation we’re all in. My favourite online get-togethers with my friends have been online board games or watching a movie together. There are plenty of amazing platforms to use so take a look!

2. Get grooving to some tunes

Don’t underestimate the power of music. It is a fabulous mood booster and can help get you moving when your routine feels repetitive. Every morning I try listening to a new, upbeat song and it has helped me feel energized, even on the dreariest days. 

3. More screen time is not a break from screen time

This is something I have definitely struggled with: you just finish your class, which is on a screen, and then you take a break by playing on your phone, which is also on a screen. Although mindlessly scrolling through Instagram might be relaxing, you’re not giving your eyes a rest. Playing on other devices can also be distracting from the work you have. Try keeping your phone away from your at-home workstation, taking breaks from your work every 45 minutes. 

4. Let your eyes rest when you can

There are plenty of methods to avoid eyestrain when it comes to schoolwork. In my experience, using audiobooks as opposed to physically reading is a good change of pace for when your eyes are extremely tired. I’ve also found that printing work when you can or working with a paper and pencil is a nice shift from working digitally. It especially helps to switch gears with the format of your tasks if you are struggling of focus. 

5. Explore new hobbies in your free time

Even though we are all busy these days, when we do have free time, it’s hard to find something to do that is both engaging and tranquil. For me, knitting, crocheting, and baking have all been great stress relievers from online school. There is plenty out there to explore! Try to choose things that don’t force you to strain your eyes, something fairly passive can be relaxing and a good change of pace. 

6. Get moving and get outside

Taking the time to go outside is crucial during remote learning. Now that we don’t have many reasons to leave our homes, finding times in the day to get fresh air can help boost your energy levels and your mood. Many sports have been shut down for the time being, so lots of us aren’t maintaining the activity level we used to. YouTube has been a fabulous resource these past few months. With a wide range of videos and workout plans, online platforms can help keep you moving, energetic, and positive. 

Covid-19 has impacted everyone differently. No matter your situation, try to make time for what you love. Taking breaks is essential. Now that home and school are one place, separating your time is even more important. Find pleasure in the small things. With optimism, I can say that this lifestyle of isolation won’t last forever. Let’s get through this together and make the most of what we have.