The 21st century has provided innumerable sources of ease through global connectedness and strong communication networks. The conventional form of teaching and learning has transformed dramatically. Today, technology has transformed the roles of learners and educators in a way that has enabled students to be more self-reliant. In some ways, this shift has encouraged students to express more coherently and given them the confidence they may not have been able to summon within a physical classroom.

As we experience the standstill that the pandemic has brought, we must also recognize the positive aspects which have emerged from the situation. As opposed to spending the extra walk to attend class, or the effort to get up and get dressed (we all have our good and bad days, right?), you will now find the time to productively spend your time instead by logging in easily to classes. In doing so, students become more confident in browsing online, discovering convenient methods of learning while overall, building an awareness on maintaining safety on the internet. Improving one’s digital literacy is key to enhancing the learning experience. Myriad of online courses are available with access to digital content/videos which you could have otherwise not have the time to indulge in. To some, this may lead to some difficulties in adjusting initially, but at the end of the day it is all about finding the right balance.

As the reader, in this very moment, possibly logged in from a computer or mobile phone/tablet, you may not be able to truly understand all the opportunities which are in place for you. All the opportunities which have been provided to you with technology; interconnection, networks, a personal space and an array of information at your fingertips. If you could truly fathom all those that are currently in your favour, what’s stopping you from achieving your best?

Given the stringent procedures in the present lockdown, I understand that it might be tough to find the encouragement to work within the constraints of your home. But let’s try to think objectively. If we are trying to avoid being positive this year, let it be the results on your PCR test. (Just joking!)

Now let’s identify some ways you can ensure to stay focused while studying from home.

Cooped up at home, one of the best interactions I had was meeting new peers. It was surprising how easily I made friends in class during group work and assignments. Finding people of similar interest who had ideas on working more proactively online, sharing viewpoints of what worked best for them was a turning point. Each one of us, after all, were in this together. Not only did I find it easy to reach my colleagues but their responses in group-chats were far more immediate, Video sessions were no more formal meetings after a few sessions and it became a platform for us to learn and grow, sometimes giving each other a few laughs. Such social interactions played a huge role in my drive perform throughout the semester.

Another trick I learned was spending a couple of hours every few weeks watching interesting documentaries which I may not otherwise have had the time for. It has not only enhanced my knowledge of current affairs but I have been adding up to my list of hobbies which I find, helps me after meeting excessive lesson deadlines. At the same time, watching informative shows where experts share their views on matters of environment, business affairs and/or personal health is extremely beneficial in the long run because there is no added pressure of sitting for an exam after or memorising the content you’ve watched. It’s merely the interest which gets you to turn browse the content and learn which makes a far more impactful experience overall.

Journaling is another great way to calm one’s nerves during final submissions. How is that related to online learning or your studies, you wonder? Personally, it helped me stay methodical. By scheduling, one stays more mindful of the pending work and manages time more effectively. It also encourages discipline which you need to pushing yourself to find the mood to study or complete your assignments, despite a week of repetitive readings or online researching.

The effects of COVID-19 should not impede our journey to achieve outcomes any further. Go ahead. Now is the best time to pick up that new course you’ve been putting off for so long. Learn a language, achieve a new milestone; whatever works for you!