5 Tips for Acing Your Graduate Classes Online

5 Tips for Acing Online Graduate Classes

The coronavirus crisis has changed how classes work. In a world where safety requires social distancing, many students have had to stay out of classrooms – and away from their peers and professors. Instead, classes have largely taken place online, through video conferencing, forums, and other e-learning platforms.

At most universities, online classes will likely continue well into the next school year, according to a report from higher education research company QS Quacquarelli Symonds. In a survey of universities from across the globe, 67% of schools expect to take a blended learning approach, combining online teaching with some face-to-face classes.

In SMU, blended learning had been a key pedagogical approach even before the pandemic. Postgraduate programmes such as the MSc in Communication Management (MCM) and the MSc in Management (MiM) have combined online study with face-to-face classes to lend flexibility to graduate students balancing studies with their professional schedules.

Even with strong institutional support, however, blended learning can still take some getting used to, especially for postgraduate students. If you’re apprehensive about tackling postgraduate courses online, here are some tips to help you adjust to this new normal.

1.    Avoid multitasking

With both academic and professional responsibilities on your plate, multitasking can seem unavoidable. However, as the Harvard Business Review points out, multitasking doesn’t work—in fact, your efficiency can drop as much as 40 percent.  Instead, try to block off time for your courses, and work on one item at a time. This clears mental space for you to focus on your lessons or requirements.

2.    Stay organised

Of course, focus is easier when you have a structured, distraction-free routine. If you can, set up a designated workstation at home. Likewise, try to maintain a consistent study schedule and set goals for your learning. Introducing structure into your learning process will make it easier to stay on top of your classes.

3.    Master your resources

The logistics of online learning can be a significant speedbump for students, especially those who aren’t tech savvy. Avoid missed deadlines, botched submissions, and other mishaps by familiarising yourself with the tools and platforms needed for your classes. Whenever possible, try these out before your classes start, and seek help from your teachers or programme staff if needed.

4.    Engage with your classmates and teachers

Active participation can maximise your learning experience. From sharing in discussion boards to asking questions in webinars, seek out opportunities to engage with the course. Fellow students’ insights could shed new light on your lessons, and your teachers can clarify any questions that may be keeping you from grasping the course material fully.

5.    Manage your expectations

While online courses give you more leeway to work at your own pace, don’t underestimate their substance or rigor. If you expect to breeze through an online class without putting in the work, you may set yourself up for trouble. Remember, online courses require just as much discipline and commitment as face-to-face classes.