text: Hopwood Hall :: Tips and Hints for Online Learning
  Top 10 effective ways to start your day before online learning
  We know that all students are capable of reaching their full potential – whether they're learning on or off campus. We won't allow the coronavirus pandemic to stop you from getting your education, which is why we've moved our operations to online learning.
  The ItsLearning platform gives you access to regular and stimulating workloads while at home. But we recognise that getting into the rhythm of things might be harder when you're not at the College.
  So, here are our top 10 effective ways to start your day before online learning.
  Move from your bed
  The temptation to work from your bed might be strong. You've got the power to resist it though! There are many reasons why you should aim to have separate places to work and rest, not least because it can affect your sleeping patterns.
  There's a reason breakfast is called the most important meal of the day. If you don't eat, you risk lacking in energy and struggling to concentrate. A hearty breakfast is one of the best ways that you can kick yourself into second gear before logging onto ItsLearning.
  Don't forget to change out of your pyjamas. Your best bet is to wear the kind of clothes that you would if studying at College. This will mean wearing an outfit that you feel comfortable in and doesn't restrict you.
  Exercising in the morning can actually make you feel awake and energised. We know that it's not always practical to leave the house due to the current circumstances, but why not have a go at doing one of our daily self-isolation workouts?
  If it's possible, you should try to get some fresh air since it can give you a boost of energy and improve your mental health. You don't even have to leave the house, but can instead just open a window to let a breeze in before getting underway.
  Tell others you're studying
  It's always worth letting your family and friends know when you're logging onto ItsLearning. This way you'll be giving them a heads up not to disturb you and you'll be able to get on with your work without any distractions.
  Some people's most impressive work can be done when there's music on in the background (as we know from our Performing Arts students). If you plan to learn with music playing, try to set up a playlist so that you don't have to keep changing the track every few minutes.
  Decide your breaks beforehand
  You should take regular breaks to ensure you're working at maximum productivity. However, you shouldn't take these on the fly. Choose the times ahead of your online learning so that you won't lose focus earlier than you should.
  Give some thought to what you'll need before you start studying. Just some of the things you might require are a laptop charger, water and snacks. If you've got these in advance it will prevent you from wandering off every time you need something.
  The likes of Facebook and Instagram will still be there when you're finished. Therefore, try logging off social media. You can still have lively conversations and debates with your fellow students via the ItsLearning discussion boards.
  The College has officially moved to online learning. This will understandably mean a period of adjustment, but it's also an opportunity for students to hone and develop new skills during a challenging time. While you might not currently be in the groove of things just yet, we're confident that you'll be able to excel and make the most of online learning.
  In the meantime, here are our top 10 hints and tips to help you along the way.
  This is a learning curve for everyone. If we don't get it right the first time around we will surely try again. Rest-assured that the staff at the College are all working very hard to make sure that you continue to get the best experience – not to mention as much juicy learning as possible!
  Online learning is only going to become even bigger in the future. We already use our VLE, ItsLearning, across the College. It can only be beneficial for you to embrace the platform and use it to develop your IT skills. After all, it will aid you in future with further study and employment.
  Now is a great chance to develop your communication skills. Whether it's talking to your tutors, support staff workers or your classmates, you have the opportunity to communicate more professionally. This will definitely score you brownie points with your teachers!
  4. Remain resilient
  Technical problems are annoying, but they also make you more resilient and innovative. Just think about what could be causing the problem and how you could fix it. Remember the VLE team are always available for help and guidance at vle@hopwood.ac.uk.
  Also, your tutor and support tutors may be in contact with you. Why not have a conversation with them because they may know the answer. Knowing who to contact about what will always get you the answers you need quicker.
  It is important in these uncertain times to stick to a routine. Try to get yourself online based on your usual College timetable. If you cannot do this for any reason, think about the times of day that suit you best.
  Are you an early bird or a night owl? Have a think and it will help you to decide when you could fit in studying throughout the day Meanwhile, if you have a parent working at home and they are using the laptop then look at negotiating a schedule that works for everyone.
  Make the most of other online chat platforms that are available to you. Can you set up groups with your classmates to share extra information that may help with your studies? Staying connected in new ways can only be an advantage!
  7. Keep things quiet
  We understand that it is not always possible to find somewhere quiet to work, but do try your best to find a peaceful space so that you can get on with your work. This will ensure that you're making the most of your studying time and are better equipped to take in the information.
  8. Solve your problems
  You should familiarise yourself with the right channels to help you to solve your problems as soon as they arrive. Aside from the VLE team who can help you with ItsLearning, you also have the IT help desk at ithelpdesk@hopwood.ac.uk. The safeguarding team are also contactable via safeguarding@hopwood.ac.uk.
  In addition, you can always click on the safeguarding tab in ItsLearning
  9. Use discussion boards
  If your course has discussion boards then make sure you take part. It's a place to actively share ideas, ask questions, engage and debate with other people on your course – often in real time. This will help you to develop a deeper understanding of the topics you are being taught.
  10. We Are Hopwood
  Don't forget that you are as much a part of this community online as you would be if you were on campus! Remember that and we'll keep looking forward to a bright future together.
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