7 Tips for E-learning Success

With the exceptional closure of schools, it was fortunate that LaSalle College was able to quickly announce that its teaching would continue online.

Indeed, we are privileged to have a long experience in this field, offering online courses in Montréal for nearly 20 years. That's right! Did you know that LaSalle College is the pioneer of online courses in Quebec?

The current situation is not easy for anyone. But as the saying goes, when life gives you lemons, make… virtual lemonades?

Here are a few tips to maximize your E-learning.

1. Have a dedicated workspace

To succeed in your online courses, it is recommended that you designate a workspace that will serve only this purpose. Set yourself up where you won't be disturbed: for example, a desk or a corner of the kitchen table. By taking the time to set up your workspace, you’ll feel motivated and prepared.

A comfortable chair, a monitor stand or riser, a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse (if you're working on a laptop), a houseplant, a chart highlighting your important deadlines... Customize your dedicated workspace and make it your own.

Having a workspace that is dedicated to your distance learning will allow you to stay productive and focused.

2. Be prepared

To be effective in your online training, ensure you have access to high-speed internet. Nobody wants to have a slow connection, but especially not when your tutor is explaining a difficult concept! In the event of a COVID-19 pandemic, several internet providers announced the suspension of data usage limits. Check with yours today.

Be sure to have the right software ready for use. LaSalle College online courses uses the Adobe Connect virtual platform, which you can install in advance. Check out the FAQs that we have put together for you.

Even if your computer speakers can get the job done, we strongly recommend the use of a pair of headphones. These will be particularly useful in a loud environment!

3. Eliminate distractions

Agreed, it is much easier to scroll through your Instagram feed when your teacher isn't right in front of you! But, I’m sure we don't need to tell you that this isn't exactly optimal for your comprehension of the material.

For those of you who may be tempted by outside distractions, take major steps to eliminate them at the source where possible. Whether those distractions are the housework that still needs to be done, the latest dances on TikTok or that new show on Netflix; you wouldn't be tempted by these in class, so don't let them be an issue at home.

Put your phone on airplane mode to avoid the distraction of notifications, or better yet, put your phone in another room altogether. Install an app like Cold Turkey that blocks out distracting sites. Tidy up BEFORE starting. Give your E-learning courses your full attention!

4. Maintain a fixed schedule

Maintaining a fixed schedule will help you get into work mode more quickly, and it will be more difficult for you to procrastinate on your studying.

Organize your week and set aside blocks of time for study that are set in advance. This will make it harder for you to skip them to play The Sims!

Keeping a certain structure is critical to keeping morale and productivity high through the COVID-19 crisis.

5. Pretend you're going to school

It's very tempting to attend classes in your pajamas! But motivation can take a hit if you always stay in "lazy" mode. In the morning, dress and do your hair as if you were going to school.

This will make it easier to concentrate and be productive. The key is to take your online courses as seriously as you take your face-to-face classes.

6. Active participation

The Adobe Connect virtual platform gives you several ways to interact with your tutor or peers, including the “Raise Hand” function, chat window and shared whiteboard. Take advantage of these features!

Staying present and engaged is essential to your retention of the material.

If you don't understand a concept, don't hesitate to ask your tutor. Because when you aren't seated in the same room, it can be difficult for them to gauge your level of comprehension.

Your tutors will also be available outside of class time to answer your questions via email. Take responsibility for your learning!

7. Cultivate the community spirit

E-learning may seem solitary, but it isn't if you know how to stay active. Utilize these tips, comment on posts made by other learners, introduce yourself to your peers, and participate. If the opportunity presents itself, turn on your camera. Nothing compares to real faces while working in a virtual environment.

You’ll see that the team spirit can flourish, even from a distance! The distance learning experience becomes more dynamic for all.

Registrations for the Summer 2020 semester are now open. We have solutions to enable you to pursue your studies regardless of the COVID-19 situation. Discover our online and on-campus trainings!