PASSWORDMANAGEMENT
Virtual Learning Strategies
In order to be successful this upcoming semester we want to ensure you consider the
following factors as you prepare for virtual/hybrid learning. While many of the learning
strategies that you got here will be similar, there are differences in online learning,
and it's important you take time to prepare prior to the semester beginning.
What are the Different Class Formats?
大发 is offering a variety of different modalities for the upcoming 2021-2022 academic year that includes in-person, hybrid, and fully online courses. For a full description of each modality (format) please visit the Registrar's Website.
Online Learning Basics
It's important to know that each course could be set up differently. Logging in early and frequently (every day) can ensure you stay on top of requirements and find the course more managable in regard to time and expectations no matter the format. Below are a list of basic rules of thumb when handling online courses:
- Make sure you have access to the technology you need.
- Do you have a laptop, computer, or other mobile device?
- Do you have internet access? Will you able to stream live class sessions?
- Most instructors will be utilizing Cougar Courses to deliver course materials. Did you know you can access this via the 大发 app?
- Download the Zoom app and the Teams app to ensure you have access to 大发 virtual campus on your phone!
- If you have a live class session, prepare ahead of time and log in 5 minutes early! (You may need to set up internet connection, monitors, headphones, passwords, note taking materials, etc. and that can take a few minutes.)
If you expect this to be a barrier for you, please see the Technical Support and Resources page for students. If you are in need of a computer or internet access, please email cio@csusm.edu. Test your devices ahead of time if you are using any video- or tele-conferencing software like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
- Read the syllabus, write down any questions you have and ask!
It's important that you understand course expectations right away. For example,
- Is the class meeting regularly every week via Zoom (synchronous) or are you able to complete the course material at your own pace (asynchronous)?
- Does the course have an additional lab or live performance requirement? If so, make sure you understand specifically how your lab, discussion or live performance sections will be conducted throughout the semester.
- If you are not meeting live that does not mean your instructor can't help - ask for help or clarity!
Do your best to communicate regularly with your instructor, either through Cougar Courses or directly through email. Don鈥檛 hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification, if you have any difficulty at all with access to course content, contact your instructor immediately. Don't be afraid to ask for help; pride won't help you pass your class!
- Create and stick with a time management plan.
- Create a schedule of when you need to attend class or for the time you need to spend logging in to your courses.
- Make a plan for when you are going to do your homework, assignments, essays/papers, and studying for exams.
- It can be easy to look at the list of all you have to do and get overwhelmed, so try: creating a list of tasks, prioritize them, then start going down the list one task at a time. With larger tasks and assignments, break them down into smaller chunks: for example, instead of just 鈥渨rite my term paper,鈥 break it down into distinct pieces.
When you finish a task, reward yourself! Take a ten minute break, have a snack, take a walk, text a friend, watch netflix, anything that can motivate you to finish each task鈥 and then keep working!
- Find somewhere to study!
In addition to setting a schedule, set up a physical space that maximizes your ability to learn. This means different things for different students, but for many this means maintaining a clean and organized desk or table on which to work, setting a space apart from distractions like television and video games, and finding either a quiet place or using headphones to block outside noise.
Set boundaries and expectations with family or roomates about when you might be in-class or studying. Setting these expectations with each other can deepen the respect and support your family and/or roomates can provide you during this time.
- What about accessibility & accomodations?
Students with concerns regarding the accessibility of online course content should contact their instructors or reach out to Disability Support Services or email dss@csusm.edu for options.
- What do my peers have to say?Peer tutors in the Writing Center have been working on their own list of resources for the transition to a virtual learning environment. They are students just like you, facing the same challenges and learning to adapt. See what they have to offer on the Writing Center鈥檚 website.
- Additional Links & Video Tips
Check out the Academic Success Center's website for online tools for academic success. You got this!
These websites have great study tips for time management, stress management, and online test-taking.
A few videos that discuss study strategies & time management:
- Thomas Frank:
- Thomas Frank:
- Thomas Frank:
- Thomas Frank:
Virtual Tutoring, Supplemental Instruction, and Study Groups !
Don't be afraid to get more support as you navigate these waters by using our free peer-led tutoring, supplemental instruction, and study groups which are available for students through Learning & Tutoring Services.
Fun Fact: Students who take advantage of the learning and tutoring services, get better grades. So, how can you build a visit into your new time management routine?