In alignment with government advice and restrictions, students will be studying with a blended learning approach to keep them safe during the Covid19 pandemic. This means students will partake in online learning with a timetable of virtual lectures, but they will also be allocated some on-campus classes in smaller, socially distant groups, as well as practical teaching and activity.

Independent learning is a common part of the university experience, but this year things have been a little different. Being on video call, managing study time and leading on their own learning is something which has become ‘the norm’ for school pupils and current students across the country over the past six months – and it is likely to continue as part of Bedfordshire’s ‘new normal’ approach.

But how can students get the best from online learning and stay motivated with all the extra screen-time?

Prepare, participate & take notes.

Here are some Beds approved top tips from the Welcome Week team, to help students get the most of virtual learning and staying motivated…

During an online class

1 ) Prepare

Completing the pre-reading or any tasks from the week before will make you feel confident before any class. Make sure you check your reading lists or look around the topic online so you are as prepared as you can be.

2 ) Participate

Be ready to get involved in your online classes – you should ask questions, discuss topics with your peers, and take the opportunity to speak when you can. 

3 ) Take notes

Having a pen and paper to hand when you are taking an online class is handy for you to take notes with – and you can keep your lecture on the screen!

4 ) Challenge yourself

Ask yourself some questions – what do you want to get out of university? What do you want to get out of this year? What do you want to get out of this class? Remember, challenging yourself each day to achieve wider goals is an important part of university.

Set yourself a goal to ask a question in a class, or to read up on a particular topic of interest after a lecture – little steps will help you reach your goals.

Staying motivated

1 ) Prioritise

Get your order of priorities in check at the start of term. It will help you distinguish between essential activities and items to help you achieve your study goals and non-essential items.

2 ) Get a diary

Once your priorities are set out, write them down! Having a paper diary or using an app on your phone will help you keep on top of your goals and help you to achieve.

3 ) Plan on a weekend

Writing in a diary or setting out your week ahead will only take 30 minutes to do. Adding this to your schedule at the weekend means you will be ready for Monday to roll round. Your weeks may be similar, but organising your diary weekly will allow for flexibility!

4 ) Don’t forget the little things

Life will get in the way sometimes (read our advice on how to balance studying with work and responsibilities). The little things are sometimes the most important so be sure to schedule in time for life admin. Being organised will help you to stay motivated.

For more guidance and advice, visit the University of Bedfordshire’s Student Support pages online: www.beds.ac.uk/student-support/