Please describe a stressful situation and how you managed or mismanaged that situation. Have you used exercise as a stress management technique? Reply to student post below! —————————– Casey Floch A stressful situation I have experienced lately, as I’m sure most parents on here would agree, has been adjusting to virtual schooling with my son. My son is in first grade and has been doing virtual schooling for the last month. On top of having to adjust to this new norm, I have also been struggling to keep up with my college course load because I am taking some more challenging classes this semester. Originally when I made my plan to complete my prerequisites for nursing school, I planned to take my more time consuming and challenging classes when my son would be at school full-time. Now that we are at home doing virtual school, I find myself bouncing back and forth between his school schedule and my classwork. Not to mention, I also have a very busy three year old that is still dependent on me to meet her everyday needs. Though it is very much a balancing act, I feel most days I handle it pretty well. On the good days, I wake up extra early to set up my son’s work space and gather all the materials he will need to complete his schoolwork throughout the day so I’m not rushing back and forth to get his school supplies. I set him up on one side of the dinning room table and set myself up on the other side with my class materials so I can see him and make sure he is doing his work while I do my classwork as well. Recently, I bought him a set of headphones so that he can focus better and not be distracted by the noise going on around the house. On the more difficult days, I stay up too late at night and end up sleeping in too late the next morning. I feel unprepared and scatter brained trying to gather materials and make sure he is on time for his class Zoom meetings. Moreover, I end up being short tempered and finding myself having more of a negative attitude towards everything throughout the day. I exercise everyday and it does help with my stressors a lot. Many days where I feel overwhelmed and like the day is out of my control I take my kids and I on a long walk. While I’m on the walk I try to do what I call the “4 senses exercise.” As I walk I point out the pretty things I see, I touch flowers or walk bare foot in the grass to make myself feel more grounded, I take deep inhales and ask my kids what different smells they can smell in the air, and I listen to the birds chirp and try to find where they are hiding in the bushes and the trees. On days where I’m having high stress and anxiety, I find that the long walks and the 4 senses exercise helps me relieve my stress more than my regular 30 minute workouts.

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.