Remote learning may be new to some, but there are tips to stay on track..

Finding Remote Learning Hard?
Here are Tips to Help You Succeed

On March 30, Northern Essex Community College transitioned all courses to remote learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While learning in the comfort of your home can sound cozy at first, I’m sure you’ve found by now that there are challenges. Dealing with computer and Internet issues; learning new technology; tuning out household distractions; and finding the discipline to set aside time for coursework can all have an impact on your academic progress.

And on top of all that, we are experiencing anxiety and stress worrying about the pandemic and our personal safety and that of our family and friends.
The transition has been a major adjustment for students—and faculty—who are all experiencing similar worries and challenges.

Three of the college’s experts on student success—Audrey Ellis, assistant director of student success management; Denise Trinidad, academic coach, and Linda Giampa, coordinator of academic coaching, have some tips to help students succeed in the new remote learning environment that they are eager to share:

Communicate with your professors

If you’re a millennial or from Gen Z, you may not use email that frequently, but this is often the best way to keep in touch with your professors. Check email often to connect with them and also communicate through Blackboard to ask questions and get support.
Collaborate with your peers

While you are no longer sitting next to your peers in class, it’s important to keep in touch with them by actively participating in online classroom discussions. Also, Navigate, the college’s student app and website, has Study Buddy, a tool you can use to reach out and arrange study sessions with your classmates.

Make time for learning

You need to carve out time for learning, and the best way to do this is to create a schedule for learning. Creating to-do lists will allow you to stay on top of everything you need to complete in your classes. Here’s some good advice on this topic from our friends in Canada.
Don’t lose your motivation

Taking care of your mental and physical health has to be a priority. While studying, sip on a glass of water or a soothing cup of tea and have healthy snacks handy. Also, don’t forget to schedule breaks and give yourself time to recharge. For some that means a walk outside, while for others a Netflix comedy may be the best stress reducer.

This isn’t a time for perfection. Your faculty understand how difficult this is for many of you, and they will be understanding as long as you keep in close contact with them.

Access Support Services remotely

Most support services are still available remotely.
Learn how you can access Tutoring, Career Services, Advising, Financial Aid, Food and Clothing Closets, Learning Accommodations, and more.
Questions?

Contact Audrey Ellis, aellis@necc.mass.edu; Linda Giampa, lgiampa@necc.mass.edu; or DeniseTrinidad, dtrinidad@necc.mass.edu
Also, if you’re interested on receiving tips and inspiration to help you succeed in this remote learning environment, follow @navigatenecc, a new Instagram focused on student success created especially for our students.