One of the big differences of online courses compared to face-to-face courses is that you are more on your own. In online classes it may be harder to receive feedback. You will likely need to provide yourself with more structure and be more purposeful about finding support. Creating a realistic schedule therefore becomes critical, as does seeking connections with your learning partners including your classmates and friends. Of course, the Learning Center is here to support you too.

Whether learning is online or face-to-face, it’s important to start with the big picture by asking yourself questions like:

• What do you need to be successful in your online courses?
• Who are your study partners?
• When are your instructors holding virtual office hours?
• What other resources do you need such as tutoring, study groups or time with your TA?
• What can you do to create a learning environment wherever you are?
• What are the tasks you need to complete for each course and how much time do you need to devote to these different tasks?
• Are you finding ways to take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating healthy and exercising?
• How are you keeping yourself connected with your family and friends?

In order for your work time to be productive, you need to get into “work mode.” This means getting dressed for the job. Don’t stay in your sleep clothes all day. Getting dressed for the day is an important part of establishing a work routine!

Build a schedule that allows for study time and non-study time. Everyone needs a break.

Create a designated space where you study and reserve that spot only for studying. Just as someone in a studio apartment has a couch by day and a bed by night, make sure your study location is only used for this one purpose. The point being that you will establish a routine study area which will help you stay focused and learn more effectively.

Do your best to eliminate distractions in your environment:

• Turn off notifications and social media, sit at your study space, and shut off all unnecessary browsers on your computer.
• If you need some type of background noise, check out study music or cafe/library sounds on YouTube or make your own study playlist.

Once you have set up your space and are now in learning mode, the next step is to create a specific study plan. We suggest the following steps to ensure that you’re ready for the tasks ahead:

1. Set and follow a schedule using the same principles as you would in the face to face environment.
   • Think of the rest of the semester as a mini online module or unit with a new format and some (possibly) new deadlines.
   • Use our Semester Grid (PDF) or your calendar to write down your assignment deadlines and exam dates. Don’t forget about time zone differences if you are not in the Eastern Standard Time (EST).
2. Establish a routine! Building structure into your day is vital when you are on your own. Get up and get ready for the day.
   • Specify and block certain hours for the tasks you need to complete (e.g., watch lectures, review notes, complete assignments, participate in ZOOM sessions or forums, etc.).
   • Use your calendar, or our Weekly Planner (PDF), to help you monitor how you are spending your daily and weekly hours.
   • Be flexible and ready to adjust your schedule if your tasks take longer than you expect.
3. Be more deliberate about setting deadlines and how you manage your time.
   • Set weekly goals every weekend for the following week, using a calendar such as our Task and Subtask Planner (PDF).
   • Be as specific as possible, indicating what you are going to study and when during the day you will do it, e.g., instead of writing “studying chemistry” write “acids and bases” on your calendar or planner.
4. Continue doing all the things you would normally do to learn:
   • Read your text book
   • Attend/watch lectures
   • Take notes and review your notes
   • Do homework and practice problems
   • Attend Workshops and recitations
   • Take part in a study group or find a Learning Center tutor
   • Email your professor or TA with questions
   • Set up an appointment with a academic success coach to help set up your new learning environment
5. Find someone to be your “study-buddy.” This person can be a friend, classmate, or family member. You don’t need to be in the same course or program, but you can be there to support each other to stay on task and follow-through with deadlines.
6. At the end of every day, check on how you are spending your time and adjust as needed:
   • Are you giving yourself enough time to complete your tasks?
   • Are you connecting enough with your instructors and/or study partners?
   • Are you taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising?

Just as with face to face learning, you will have good and bad days with virtual learning. There are many virtual support options that Learning Center and the University of Rochester offers. We are here and eager to help you. See the list below for support options.

• Learning Center academic success coaches—One-on-one appointments to help you achieve your study goals. Email learning@rochester.edu to make an appointment.
• Learning Center support options—Study groups, Study Zone, and/or tutoring. Email learning@rochester.edu for more information.
• College Center for Academic Advising (CCAS)—Individual appointments for students to talk with an advisor from their school. See the CCAS schedule to make an appointment.
• Writing, Speaking and Argument Program (WSAP)—See the WSAP website for writing and speaking academic support services.
• University Counseling Center (UCC)—Visit the UCC website for more information or call (585) 275-3113 to hear about your options.