How to be a Successful Distance Learning Student

Albert A. Llego

The COVID-19 global pandemic has turned our lives upside down, especially for teachers and students. The Department of Education (DepEd) has banned the presence of students in school and students will continue their education at home using distance learning. Below are some tips to help students continue to succeed in their studies either online or modular learning.

1. Set a fixed time to study.

Those who have never taken distance learning courses may find it difficult to engage without being directed to do so by a teacher in person. Assignments can be put off or forgotten a lot easier in distance learning. Being organized and selfdisciplined is a necessity to succeed.

2. Take the time to ask questions.

Teachers are more than willing to answer any queries, so do not hesitate to ask. Just because the subject is offered over a computer or on a module does not mean you do not have the right to ask a question about the content.

3. Create a dedicated study space.

While school is closed to students, you will be able to join classes online or do activities on your module from a location of your choice. Do you have a quiet, comfortable, organized place to attend class or answer modules? Prepare your study space with snacks, good light, and all the materials you need beforehand so class time is only about logging on or doing assigned tasks and learning. 4. Avoid unnecessary distractions.

Log out your social media accounts, do not browse in another window unless your teacher calls for it and set your devices to “airplane mode” or “do not disturb”. Likewise, it may be helpful to inform your friends of your new study situation to avoid unnecessary interruptions while you are doing your schoolwork.

5. Use alarms and calendars to save important schedules.

Good organizational skill is one of the keys to being successful in distance learning. Once you get your course plan or modules, record all important dates on your calendar. Students who forget assignments in distance learning usually are not spared from the consequences. In some cases, because distance learning is less social, consequences of forgetting an assignment could be harder than in a classroom environment.

In this time of disruption, the medium for education has been forced to change, but the focus still remains the same, and that is the success of students. Remember that this is only temporary, and this is an opportunity to explore how education can change and adapt through different modes of delivery. You can do it!

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The author is Head Teacher III at Kalalake National High School, Schools

Division of Olongapo City