You've seen how the Students' Union staff work from home and the practices they have been doing. Now it is time to think more specifically for students. So check out below what good habits you can implement whilst at home to help you study more efficiently and effectively. 

Sort out a study space

If you can, find a suitable physical space for studying (ideally a desk and comfortable chair) where you won’t be disturbed. Try to avoid doing your work in bed on a sofa.

Keep to a schedule 

Try to establish a schedule for studying and let people around you know when you are studying so they don’t disturb you.  Also, try to keep to your class schedule, and connect with other students so you encourage each other to do it. If you can, meet with some of your classmates online while you’re going through the material.

Rest and stay healthy

You can’t learn if you’re not well, and that includes your mental well-being. Don’t think ‘I’ve got lots of time now, I should work around the clock.’ Instead, when you’re studying, break it up into short sessions, and if you’re revising, look back at materials you’ve revised the day after you’ve looked at them. Use the study strategies that will make the best use of your time so that you don’t overwork, and maybe change them if they don’t.

Practice tests 

If you can, use practice tests to identify what you don’t know, or set them for other students. Use as many as you can and spread them out over the days.

Keep taking notes 

When watching a video or reviewing slides make sure you take notes. Pause videos and use timestamps to take note of key points. 

Check emails and notifications regularly 

Log in to Moodle at least daily to check for new activities and messages. Ensure you subscribe to Moodle forums and check your City emails.

Increase communication with tutors 

Ensure you check in with your lecturer if things are not clear. This could be via a Moodle discussion forum or by email. Also talk to them if you’ve got too much work to do at the same time (e.g. 4 tests in one day) and clarify how best to communicate with them if you’re not sure.

Stay connected with other students 

Either within Moodle or via external groups (such as WhatsApp or Facebook), and form study groups to talk through the materials you are learning. Explaining how you approached a problem or why your answers are right are wrong is a very good way to learn. Too much social media and news can cause anxiety, so talk to those around you.

Be patient, flexible and considerate 

Disruption is tough on everyone; be considerate of your fellow learners and your lecturers as they deal with an evolving situation and be prepared to be flexible. Things may not work as expected first time. Keep in mind your lecturers and peers may be getting LOTS of emails, so identify yourself, use email etiquette, etc. They may also have challenging personal circumstances due to the disruption, so remember that kindness can go a long way. 

Further support

City’s student Ed Tech guidance - find out how to use key City technologies, such as Moodle, Echo360, Adobe Connect.

Join the City Students Union' 'Socially Distanced' Community on Facebook 

Submitting a Moodle assignment

Using Moodle discussion forums

Adobe Connect participants guide

What Makes a Successful Online Learner? – advice from Minnesota State students

Further tips for online study – Selina Griffin shares her tips from being an online student