7 tips and tricks to get you ready for remote learning

1. Create a designated learning space

Although super tempting, trying to work from the couch or your bed really isn't conducive to a productive learning session. Creating a designated space helps you focus on the task at hand and leaves other spaces in your house for breaks and free-time - which are super important.

Learning space checklist:

• Find a table that rests between your waist and ribs when sitting, so that your elbows can rest easily on the tabletop (avoiding slouching!)
• Find a chair that feels comfortable with this desk height, ensuring your feet reach the floor and your back is supported (use cushions or a footrest if necessary).
• Make sure there is adequate lighting, helping you stay focussed and making sure your eyes aren't straining.
• If possible, use books to lift your laptop or desktop screen to eye-height (you'll need a spare mouse and keypad for this if you're using a laptop).
• Maintain a clutter free space with a few items that motivate you (e.g. a nice work of art, a photo of family or even an indoor plant).
• Lastly, make sure you're all set-up with working wi-fi and that you're able to connect to all the required UOW remote delivery platforms (Webex, Zoom, Moodle, Echo360, SOLS and email) before classes start. If you require IT support, get in touch with the team - they'll be happy to help! Note: If you're accessing UOW remote learning offshore, reach out to your subject coordinator who will organise access to a virtual private network (VPN) connection through IT support.

2. Keep to a routine

You've heard this one before - so it must be important! Routine checklist:

• Timetabling is a great way to get the ball rolling. Include any due dates, class times, study sessions and breaks in your timetable and make sure you read your emails to keep track of any updates you need to add.
• If you think you'll struggle to stick to your schedule, use a timer to move your focus from one task to another. Make sure you incorporate regular breaks (it's recommended that you stand up and move your body every hour).
• Use a checklist to tick off tasks as you go. Be detailed in your descriptions so you know exactly what you need to do and when.
• Make an effort to maintain a positive balance between study and life. Find some fun things to do at home that don't involve uni work and add them to your timetable. It's important to take your mind elsewhere, socialise with your friends online and do exercise.

3. Keep in touch with your academics

Just because you aren't seeing them in class, doesn't mean your academics aren't available to help you.

Use your online Moodle forums to ask questions and clarify content. Try to keep your communications concise, as they'll be getting more notifications than ever, so this will make it easier for them and you!

If it is a personal issue, email your subject coordinator directly. Their email address will be in your subject outline.

4. Stay in touch with your uni friends

You're going to need the support of your uni friends now more than ever.

Maybe you forgot you had a reading to do by Friday, or that an assessment was due next Tuesday. Uni friends are great for reminding you of the things you may have forgotten, but they're also going through exactly what you are. If you need to chat with someone just to lighten your mood, or you miss being on campus hanging out, give them a ring and catch up - chances are they're feeling the same way!

5. Learn the art of live video streaming

As with all classes, you're still encouraged to participate, however, things are slightly different online and it's probably worth knowing how to master the art.

Things to know:

• If you don't feel comfortable asking a question audibly, you can use the chat function (introverts everywhere breathe a sigh of relief).
• If you don't mind speaking in front of everyone you can, however, while you're not speaking, turn your microphone off so that any background noises don't disturb other viewers.
• As with everyday etiquette, avoid interrupting others.
• Assume you can be seen 100% of the time. It would be a shame to get caught picking your noise!

6. Put your phone down

Your phone is fantastic, but it can really take over. You get your news and social media fix on it, contact friends and play games on it as well. Pretending that your phone won't distract you while you try to learn will quickly prove to be a mistake. Avoid using it as a calculator or dictionary as well - you'll inevitably see a notification and get distracted.

7. Stay healthy

Saved the best till last. Staying healthy is very important in times like these. Your mental health will likely be impacted so follow these 5 tips for maintaining resilience, from UOW experts. Also, (your mum has definitely already said these, but) get enough sleep, eat healthy food, go outside for your 'essential' daily spot of exercise and take breaks - you'll deserve them.

If you need further support, get in touch with the relevant UOW Student Support Service.

Good luck, #stayhome and #staysafe 

For more info visit UOW's remote learning site.