Learning Guide: Online Learning

Learning in an online environment requires different strategies for maintaining focus and motivation. You’ll also need time management skills to stay on top of assignments. 

Tips for Online Learning

1. Make a weekly schedule 
   Include 6-8 hours of work per class (include lectures, labs, tutorials, etc.), meals, exercise, 7-8 hours of sleep, and hobbies. Giving yourself structure helps you stay motivated and maintain a healthy school-life balance. 
2. Establish your study space
   Designate a space for school only, keep materials organized and together, and think of your 5 senses (is your space comfortable? Is it bright? Any distractions?). Your study space could be a desk in a separate room or a specific seat at your dining room table. Wherever it is, it’s important that you have all your materials available and distractions to a minimum (no eating, TV, or social media). 
3. Stay organized
   Be aware of deadlines, use calendars, agendas, and to-do lists, and get familiar with the platform your class is using. McGill University supports three main platforms: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and myCourses. Knowing how to use these platforms, how to access chats and discussion boards, allows you to be fully engaged in your online learning environment. Teaching and Learning Services also has resources available to help you learn about technology used at McGill. 
4. Family and friends
   Discuss expectations, set boundaries, and plan schedules. Let them know what you need from them in order to be an effective learner, and find out what they need from you in return. 
5. Be aware of challenges
   Avoid sarcasm and be mindful of tone, be polite, use proper formatting when sending emails, be active on discussion boards, and ask questions.