Prepare for Online/Remote Learning

As we move through this course, we will work to support one another and prioritize clear communication. If this is your first time learning entirely online, please be patient with yourself - as with any new skill, it takes time and practice to become adept. We're learning, together, a new way to teach and learn. 

To help you get started here are some tips and advice on how to make a strong start and stay motivated throughout the term (see also Tips to students for online learning Links to an external site.).

What can I do to make a strong start?

  • Set up a quiet space, free from distraction to work from with good internet connection. Try to find a personal space (not a shared space like a common living area). If you are sharing a space, consider creating a sign that flags to your housemates when you are on a session or should not be interrupted.
  • Keep distractions to a minimum. Turn off unnecessary distractions (like your cell phone off to avoid losing focus every time a text message or notification pops up). It will help you focus on the course material.  Student life has tips on concentration, time management, and motivation.
  • Think about when and how you accomplish your best work. If you’re a morning person, make time to study first thing to start your day. With asynchronous activities, you get to choose when to complete your work. This is good and bad and often requires some trial and error before you develop a good routine.
  • Check in often (daily) and get familiar with the orientation material that is provided by your instructor. If you have questions, use the provided mechanisms to ask them - if the teaching team doesn't know the question, they can't provide you with an answer. Do this early!
  • Take time to explore your course site(s). Move around Quercus (don't forget the options like Groups and Calendar, on the blue menu on the left) and get a feel for the interface and layout of the platform. Each course will be organized a bit differently, and come with different expectations of interaction, so spending time familiarizing yourself with the format is worth it.

How do I stay motivated over the term?

  • Set up a study calendar with a regular schedule. Having a schedule will keep you on task and on time. Set mini deadlines for the week. For example, break down when you will: engage with lecture content, complete readings, complete assignments and quizzes.
  • Develop relationships with your peers. Take part in online discussions. Developing a community will help you feel connected to the course and the material.
  • Help everyone learn by asking questions and contributing to the online discussion. The more you put in the more learning that everyone will get out of the course.
  • Seek help if and when you need it. Many help resources will be available for you in the course, including library services, academic support and technical support. If help resources are not enough reach out to your peers in the course as well as your TAs and your instructor.

Check technical requirements

  • Personal Computer: You will need regular access to a computer – preferably a personal computer – with administrator privileges and you should be comfortable managing software and hardware. While much can be done with tablets, smartphones and other mobile devices they are not guaranteed to work in all areas of the course. For an optimal experience, you must have a laptop or desktop computer (Windows 10 or higher or Mac OS X 10.14 or higher is recommended).
  • Internet connection: High-speed broadband access (LAN, Cable or DSL) is highly recommended for an optimal learning experience. You will also want to speak with your Internet Service Provider to ensure that your bandwidth cap is large enough to participate in a fully online course. Many include video and webinar sessions, both of which use large amounts of bandwidth.
  • A Web Browser is required for access to Quercus. In some instances, it may be necessary for some users to upgrade their web browser programs (see a list of supported browsers Links to an external site.).
  • Speaker and Headphones: Many courses will have synchronous (live) online meetings using webinar software Links to an external site.. It is preferable to use headphones with an attached microphone for these sessions.
  • Microphone and Webcam: A microphone is required for most courses and webcams are desirable but optional.  If you are comforable, and to get the most out of your online course, we recommend using your camera and microphone. Not only does this help build relationships between you and your peers, but it also helps your professors and TAs get to know you, too.
  • Software:  Many courses require word processing software (download Office 365 ProPlus).
  • Minimum technical requirements: The University of Toronto has identified the following minimum technical requirements needed for students to access remote/online learning. You might also want to review the minimum requirements for Quercus Links to an external site..

What do I do if I'm feeling overwhelmed?

Feeling distressed? Life is complicated and doesn't always go as planned. If you are in distress, you can connect with the help you need.

References

  1. Educause How Students Develop Online Learning Skills Links to an external site..
  2. Dimensions and Strategies for Online Success. DIMENSIONS AND STRATEGIES FOR ONLINE SUCCESS Links to an external site.: VOICES FROM EXPERIENCED EDUCATORS
  3. Self-Check adapted from Fairmont State University, Characteristics of a Successful Online Student Links to an external site.
  4. Tips to students for online learning Links to an external site.

Technical Resources

  1. Minimum requirements for Quercus Links to an external site.
  2. Browsers Supported for Quercus Links to an external site.
  3. Recommended Technology Requirements for Remote/Online Learning (Office of the Vice-Provost, Students)