Updated on January 3, 2023
Transitioning from a traditional classroom to a virtual classroom, especially in a hurry, can be a bit overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. Your friends at Ball State Online have a few tips to help you stay positive and make the most of your remote learning.
Relax
Remember, you’re not in this alone. While the experience may feel overwhelming at first, you got this! You still have campus resources, such as the…
And, of course, your professors, classmates, and academic advisors are readily available, and here to help!
Canvas
Do you know how to access your Ball State course online in Canvas? First, visit bsu.instructure.com and then log in with your Ball State username and password. We suggest bookmarking this for easy access. If your course does not appear in your Canvas Dashboard, ask your instructor to “Publish” the course.
Routine is Key
If you had a routine while on campus, remember to stick to that schedule:
- Wake up at the same time.
- Log in and “attend class” at the same time.
- Take your regular study breaks.
- Eat balanced meals, etc.
If you’re finding it a little challenging to stick to your campus routine while at home, try setting alarms throughout the day to help keep you on course until you adjust to your new setting. Another way to help is to set up a dedicated space, free of distractions, for your studies. If you have roommates or family, let them know your schedule and ask that they respect it.
Check In Regularly
Remember, you are not alone. Thousands of other students and faculty members are in the same position as you.
- Continue connecting with instructors and classmates.
- Use your Ball State email address when communicating about assignments or to your professors.
- Be sure to include your name, course number, and section to help keep your correspondence organized.
- When working with discussion boards, treat them as you would a classroom discussion. To get a true conversation going, be thoughtful and provide context to your initial answers.
Of course, we also suggest you take some time every day to check in on your friends and see how they are doing. A quick text or video chat can do wonders for mental health during this time.
Technology
Find out the technical requirements for each of your courses.
Will your instructor use WebEx to hold video conferences? If so, check to see that you have a webcam. Most laptops are equipped with one, but if you use a desktop computer you may need to order an external webcam to participate.
Reliable internet access is also extremely important. Make sure your bandwidth can handle the amount of work you will be doing online, and keep in mind that you are probably not the only one who will be using the internet at a single time.
If you have any concerns about access to the correct technology, let your instructors know immediately. They are here to help you and together you can come up with an alternative solution to complete assignments.
Find Stress Relievers
One of the most important things you can do during this time is to pay attention to your health, both physical and mental.
Maintain a balanced diet, your regular exercise routine, and hydrate throughout the day. If you are feeling overwhelmed, find ways to relieve your stress. Go for a quick walk, spend some time in the sun to clear your mind, and most of all enjoy time with family.
It’s important to take a break every now and then to avoid burnout.
Remember, you are not alone. There are so many people in your corner, cheering for you and supporting you right now. Family, friends, professors, and your advisors are all here for you!
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