Resources for Online Learning
Succeeding in college and in online classes requires students to use effective strategies for learning. It’s important to build on successful learning and study strategies. If you already had strong and effective strategies, making changes to modify your routine will help. If you need to develop effective strategies, use the strategies below and seek help from Academic Support when needed especially if you experience academic difficulties. Notice many of the activities below can also be effective for classroom learning.
Time Management & Organization
Many students fail to plan how they use their time which leads to haphazard and ineffective studying. When you do not have a plan for how you use your time, you are not likely to accomplish your tasks.
- Try Apps such as myHomework, Evernote, Trello, OneNote, My Study Life to help you develop better time management skills.
- Create a Routine for life balance and to create order in your day, week and semester.
- The Time Management Worksheet or daily to-do lists can also help you structure your day.
Academic Success, Studying & Learning
Although many students focus on the grades they earn in college, the real goal is to learn. When you learn effectively, you will have more success demonstrating that learning in your assignments and exams.
- GoBoard is an online platform that connects students and you can use it for virtual meetings with study partners. It offers video conferencing, chats, a virtual white board and other tools to share work and notes.
- Math Help Online has self-help information to help you learn more about various math topics especially algebra.
- The Trinity Library is the place to go for help with conducting research. They offer virtual appointments.
- The Peer Tutors will set up virtual or in-person appointments to help you with math, science, language and other classes.
- The Pomodoro Technique suggests a plan to help you develop better focus by including time dedicated to study and time for breaks.
- Professors’ office hours (see course syllabus or email professor to schedule a meeting)
- Use effective Reading Strategies for College to retain course information and learn material that is essential for your understanding.
- This Study Cycle provides guided steps to approaching your classes and preparing for exams.
- Trinity Writing Tutors also work with you virtually and in-person on your academic writing assignments.
- If you need other help, call or schedule an appointment with Academic Support to discuss your individual situation.
Minimizing Distractions
Distractions can wreck your routine so make sure you minimize or eliminate those things that interrupt you and take your attention away from accomplishing your goals. A good time management plan includes time for fun, personal activities, family and other distractions during breaks or when you are not working.
- Apps to help you stay engaged by keeping you away from distractions on your device include: Freedom, KeepMeOut, Switcheroo
Networking
- Study partner or group (can be virtual or face-to-face with social distancing)
- Video conference/chat on Zoom, Google Meet, GoBoard, Microsoft Teams, FaceTime, WhatsApp, etc.
Self-Care and Activities
- Guided meditations to manage school (and other) stress
- Trinity Center classes
- Volunteer/community service (Trinity)