As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, college students are forced to adapt to new realities. Online learning has become the norm, allowing students to continue their education with minimal interruptions. However, while the flexibility and affordability of digital instruction are unmatched, it comes with its fair share of challenges. For instance, college students studying online face numerous distractions, and staying focused can be a problem.
The good news is that evidence shows that the student’s learning environment influences the effectiveness of online learning programs. How you organize your study space affects your efficiency and ability to focus. Here are the top tips for creating an appropriate atmosphere that supports your study goals.
Choose the Best Space Possible
The benefit of online sessions is that you can attend classes from any part of the world as long as there is a stable internet connection. You locate a tranquil space away from distractions for optimal productivity. Depending on your living arrangements, it could be a private room or a space in your bedroom.
Ascertain that your study space has enough room for you to take notes and store essential materials. Also, consider the proximity to an electrical outlet for your PC and other devices. The fantastic thing about online classes is that you don’t need to leave the comfort of your house to study.
Understandably, not everyone can afford the luxury of studying in a spacious home office, especially those who live in student halls. Even then, studying on your bed or working in a messy room is not beneficial to effective learning. Instead, choose a study space solely dedicated to studying. It could even be a small desk placed in the corner of your room.
Spaces that serve multiple purposes can be challenging to keep neat. Also, remember that there is no shame in seeking assignment support from an online essay writing service.
Eliminate Clutter
Keeping a clean and tidy study space is critical for academic success when taking online classes. A recent study found that clutter makes it challenging for the human brain to focus on what needs to be done. A disorganized and cluttered space is also harmful to your physical and mental health and has been shown to increase anxiety.
Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a tidy and clutter-free study space that allows maximum productivity and focus. Remember working in an untidy space increases your risk of tripping or falling. Most importantly, being in a tidy space makes you more productive as it will take you a shorter time to find the materials you need for tasks. Don’t be afraid to look for the best custom writing if you struggle with assignments.
Embrace Ergonomic Features
Comfort is essential when studying from home. You will spend hours each day in your study space, meaning that it should be designed with ergonomics in mind. Make sure to include a desk and chair in your area.
Consider your sitting position as you choose the desk or table. It should rest between your ribcage and waist when seated. This way, you will be able to place your elbows on the desk as you sit, without the need to hunch forward. Your seat should also be comfortable and should fit seamlessly to the height and size of your desk. Choose a chair that supports your lower back and is placed at a height that allows you to situate your feet flat on the floor.
Other than your seat and desk, also consider the comfort of your PC. Set your laptop screen or monitor at eye level and at least two feet away from you. The bottom line is that everything in your study space, from the furniture to the equipment, should be selected and arranged to ensure good posture and comfort. You may also need to hire professional assignment writers to help with projects from time to time.
Keep Your Files Organized
The accessibility of your study material is an essential factor determining how efficient you will be during private study time. Make sure your books, notes, pens, files, and other study material are organized and easily accessible. This may mean investing in an affordable filing system. Of course, students taking online classes also can save their study materials digitally.
This article offers a few insights into organizing study spaces for online classes. Focus on such elements as lighting, comfort, and tidiness. Most importantly, avoid distractions and create a routine to help you finish tasks on time.