School's In Session: 5 remote Learning Resources You Need to Start the School Year Strong

Most classrooms are going virtual this fall but don't be nervous. Remote learning sounds scary but the fact is there are so many learning resources to help you succeed.

Are you starting online classes this year and need help figuring it all out? Keep reading for tips and resources to have a strong school year.

1. Build a Dedicated Virtual Learning Space

The virtual environment requires a ton of discipline. It's easy to get distracted.

Find a comfortable, isolated spot in your house and build a learning space. Stock it up with all of the supplies you need and keep it organized.

Your brain will learn that its time to work when you enter that space and your productivity will soar.

2. Learn the Ins and Outs of Your LMS

Nearly all K-12 school districts and colleges will use a learning management system or LMS for instruction. Whether it's Canvas, Blackboard, Google Classroom, Edmodo, or Moodle, you need to learn how it works to be successful.

Spend time navigating the LMS in your free time. Read the LMS help or community learning sections.

Some programs even offer quick, free presentations on how to use technology. Mastering the LMS will save you time in the long run.

3. Try Out Free Online Tools and Calculators

The internet is full of free online student resources.

Students can find free tools to help with every subject. Tools like Grammarly or the Hemingway App can help with language arts.

The sig fig calculator helps you in math or science to be more precise with your calculations.

If you have an elementary student at home, websites like ReadWriteThink offer free resources that can be done as enrichment.

4. Create a Remote Learning Schedule

Staying on top of tasks is as important as building a dedicated learning space.

Online classes give students way more flexibility on when they can complete work but the problem is it's easy to put off work and fall behind.

Schedule your time out to do readings, complete assignments, answer emails, or work on long-term projects. Most importantly, stick to that schedule!

You can use a physical planner from the store or a calendar app on your smartphone or laptop.

5. Don't Be Afraid To Ask Your Online Teacher for Help

Never be afraid to ask questions in your online class. Chances are every student in your class is doing this for the first time. Often, the instructors have never done remote teaching either.

You and the teacher should work together to make sure all of the course expectations are clear and that you know how to use the required technology.

Teachers can send you links for additional help or schedule a videoconference to discuss what you need.

Ready for a New School Year?

Don't let remote learning intimidate you. After reading our five tips you should be ready to master the online environment and have the best school year yet.

Need help achieving success? Read more of our blog to learn the tips and tricks of being a top student.