It’s time to talk about time management.
Completing school at home, should be easy to stay on track. You don’t lose a couple of hours a day waiting for the bus. You can take your time in the morning, fuel your body and mind with breakfast. But yet you are still feeling overwhelmed, you are missing assignments, you missed an online class and you just don’t know where the time goes.
Online schooling allows for flexibility, but many of us need a routine, a strategy to complete tasks and a schedule. We have a few tips to help you maintain a regime while still having some flexibility with online schooling.
Plan ahead
Your hectic and busy schedule, combined with all the other daily distractions, can easily get in the way of finishing tasks. The most successful students set aside time to focus. This includes having a consistent schedule and work space, as well as removing those other distractions. And trying your best to avoid surfing the internet. Many students consider purchasing a desk calendar to help keep each of their assignments organized and being able to see it right in front of them each day. On the calendar you can highlight assignments due, including drafts/final submissions. You can also access a calendar on your PALCSchool login to see each of your assignment due dates. You can also include activities related to your courses such as virtual lessons and your teacher’s office hours as well.
Don’t multitask (well not too much)
Try your very best to avoid multitasking, which can actually decrease your productivity. Focus on one assignment at a time and zero in on the specific task at hand. Whether that’s studying for an exam, reading your textbook, emailing a teacher, or participating in your virtual live lessons. Make sure to arrange your tasks in order of importance, and pay attention to the 3 or 4 crucial tasks that require the most effort. If you ever need help with staying focused, there are a few project management tools that you can use: trello, or smartsheet to help organize your tasks. Some students may prefer a traditional school list and can use links such as these: todolist, or wunderlist. Lastly, it is important to concentrate on what needs to get done right now and prioritize those tasks.
Reward yourself
It is important to reward yourself after a job well done! You deserve a pat on the back. If we do not take time to reflect on the simplest tasks or achievements, it will be harder to see the end goal. You can reward yourself by watching your favorite TV show, or going out for ice cream. Even just a day to your self walking in the park can be a good reward and can help you reset your mind. If you’ve been working on an assignment for several months at a time, then plan something to look forward too after completing that project. Make sure your time away from your studies is truly dedicated to fully enjoying yourself.
Get a good night’s sleep
Sleep is one of the most important essential things your body and mind needs. If you can, try to get seven to eight hours of rest a night. When attempting to pull an all night study or work session, you become less productive than studying consistently. Including sleep in your schedule is crucial and creates huge awards.
Don’t Be a Stranger to Your Teachers & Peers
Try to make as many connections as you can with your peers during your weekly live lessons or field trips. When joining your live lessons with your teacher and peers, it gives you a chance to really get to know people. If you have an upcoming test, go into a Zoom Room and make a virtual study room and study with your peers. You might even make a friend or two that you wouldn’t usually do in a larger class setting!
If you are interested in learning more about PA Leadership Charter School, join one of our information sessions and see how our programs works.
