Summer is winding down, which means the Fall 2020 semester is upon us. And it's definitely going to be different than any other semester we've ever experienced. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of instruction at many colleges, Dabney included, will take place online.
Sure, online learning has its downsides - instruction can't be as hands-on, students (especially first-year college students) miss out on the classroom experience, and it's more difficult to ask questions and have class discussions in real-time. This can be frustrating, but online learning truly has its perks, too. And while we're all in this together (hopefully temporarily) we should begin to appreciate the positive sides of learning online!
First, you don't have to worry about what you're going to wear.
Whether your class is online anytime or on Zoom with a set schedule, you don't have to think about finding a clean outfit that matches. You also don't have to think about what the weather will be like - what type of jacket or shoes to wear, whether to bring a sweater to class, etc. Which is awesome, if you ask me.
Also, you have tons of online resources at your disposal.
Within each of your courses in Canvas, you have access to Tutor.com, which is an amazing resource if you need a little extra help in a class. (A post about Tutor.com is coming soon!) You also have access to lots of databases and materials through the DSLCC Library. The Writing Center is also available to you to assist you through any stage of your writing process. Sara and Sherry are currently tutoring students online, and they're absolutely wonderful. (Be on the lookout for a post about the Writing Center soon as well!)
Next up: Think of all the money you'll save on gas!
Since it's likely that you won't be going to a face-to-face class for a few more months at least, you won't have to travel back and forth to campus nearly as often. Which means you won't have to fill up your gas tank nearly as often. While, yes, taking classes online may be a major adjustment this upcoming semester, your bank account may appreciate it!
You'll also have (a little bit) more free time.
If you're not going to be spending as much time on campus, you'll have a bit more free time to spend how you'd like. Try to get a few extra minutes of sleep! Also, try to study or work on classwork as often as possible. But also take some time just for yourself - to read, to catch up on your favorite podcasts or Netflix shows, to go for a walk, whatever you enjoy. Be sure to spend your extra time wisely, though, which leads me to my next point...
You'll learn some awesome time management skills when taking online courses, too.
When learning online, you may have class at a set time each day, or you may be able to learn on your own time each week. Either way, you'll quickly develop a routine that works for you. Yes, time management skills are important when your classes are face-to-face, too, but when you're given a bit more free time, it becomes even more of a priority. In addition, a lot of our students have jobs and families of their own. So, when learning online, a routine is a must. Online learning will help you find an awesome routine that works for you!
And please don't forget that if you have any questions or concerns along the way, the DSLCC Library staff is always here to help.
Stay safe, stay healthy - you got this!