Tips for Remote Learning: From Students, for Students

Student tutors and staff members share what have become their best practices for learning from home, and remind us that we're all adjusting and we're all in this together.

By Julia Rubin
Screenshot of a group Zoom call.
The volleyball team meets with Professor of Anthropology on video chat to get support navigating the transition to online learning.

1. Study with Friends
“One of the best ways that I have learned to succeed with online classes is to maintain the study groups that I had while on campus. We have found ways to continue to work together and it has honestly made the largest impact of anything that I have done thus far. Sitting inside all day working on homework alone is not very fun I will admit, but working on homework with a group of friends can be a blast. “

– KYLE RECTOR, Junior, Engineering Major

2. If Sharing Space, Share Schedules
“I rely on multiple lists and regular relocation around the house to keep myself on track.  My family has written up a table of everyone’s schedules so as not to step on anyone’s toes.”

– NOELLE CRAVEIRO, Sophomore, American Studies Major

Student holds up kitten on Zoom call with professor.
Junior Educational Studies Major Sarah Trudeau and her kitten, Mikka, on a virtual meeting with Professor of Literacy and English Education Susan Pasquarelli

3. Communicate with Professors
“When online learning first started, I found myself overwhelmed with extra busy work such as problem sets, and short essay reflections that I had never had earlier in the semester. Instead of complaining about the extra work, my classmates and I addressed the situation with our professor and suggested other ideas such as a reflection conversation during our class meeting that we could have instead of writing all these essays. She expressed that she actually liked this idea better, and didn't realize that the work was added pressure. It is important to tell your professors when you are feeling overwhelmed and almost 100% of the time they are understanding and willing to adjust the syllabus.”

– ALLIE KLEIN, Senior, Marine Biology Major

4. Make Time and Space for Breaks
“I have to remind myself to take a break every once in a while. Associating the same spaces as work and rest make it difficult to keep balance.”

– NOELLE CRAVEIRO

5. Take Advantage of Tutoring Services
“When you need help, reach out to our sites for tutoring support.  The tutors are a great resource for academic help and for staying connected.”

– KAREN BILOTTI, Assoc. Director, Center for Student Academic Success

Student holding up laptop.
Science tutor Aubrey McLaughlin '20 runs an online session

6. Remember: You’re Not Alone!
“Despite the challenges, though, I keep my head up knowing that my friends understand what I (and we all are) going through.  Zoom and FaceTime meetups are really great for mental/emotional grounding.”

– NOELLE CRAVEIRO

Screenshot of team Zoom video chat.
Cross Country team and coach Sean Livingston gets together on Zoom to chat and hang out.

7. Give Yourself Time to Adjust
“As for advice to students who are still adjusting – we all are still! That’s what we have to remember.”

– JILL STEVENS, Junior, Public Relations Major 

BONUS: Check out more tips for succeeding in online courses from the Center for Student Academic Success

Students: We're all learning how to do this together. Have you found an approach or technique that works well that you want to share? Email us at stories@rwu.edu

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