Essay Example on Challenges with Online School

At my previous university I faced many difficulties in the online learning environment. I want to ensure that this time around I am being proactive and doing everything in my power to stay on top of my assignments and either prevent or be able to troubleshoot any technical issues that come my way. School is my number one priority and adapting to the learning environment has been a challenge for me, but I always look forward to facing the challenge head on. Some online challenges that I may possibly face this semester are technical issues, time management, and staying motivated to do daily tasks. 

Technical issues can happen at the most random times with wifi barely staying connected and/or the device you're using isn't working correctly. Aronson said “Even if you get stuck not being able to be online, you still need to get work done… make sure you have your professors’ email addresses and phone numbers in case you need to reach them about interrupted work.” This quote directly relates to cutting everyone slack and being patient when things don't go as smoothly as planned. I remember my first semester of college I was contacting every administrator and advisor trying to figure out and solve my internet problems. Technical issues are very frustrating, but it’s important to understand that with being completely online, that is expected to happen at least once during the semester. I learned the best thing to do was to email and let my professors know and just be cool and not panic. 

Time management can be a problem for anyone who gets distracted easily, especially since students have access to their phones and can literally be sleeping while on zoom. “Look at what you have to do for the whole week and divide it up into manageable blocks for each day,” said Amanda Carroll. Time management can be a problem for everyone however, there are apps and other alternatives that can help solve this issue such as google calendars. Another method I could use is a study schedule, and carry a laptop or book around to remind you that you need to be in a scholar mindset. There are also outside factors that may distract you from classwork/homework. Having siblings that are doing online homework and zoom classes can interfere with your own online class time. Putting a note on your bedroom or office door stating that you are currently in class and to not disturb can prevent family members and siblings from entering and disturbing your online learning. It’s important to remain focused to ensure that those distractions don’t become major disruptions in your own learning environment. 

Also, staying motivated to do all your assignments on time can be challenging because you don't have to go on campus, so you have to be motivated at all times. Although online courses do not take place at an actual campus, one must take this just as seriously as the workload is the same, but without the extra help. Aronson also said “Some people work best in the morning while others hit their stride at night. Regardless, keep yourself accountable for start times so you can create some momentum and then keep it going.” It may be hard to stay focused for some because of phones and some classes can seem like they are lasting forever, but putting your phones on do not disturb can also help your attention span. Having a part time or full time job during online classes can be difficult but this is where staying disciplined and staying on track comes into play.

I can prevent these challenges by writing my assignments down daily in my agenda, staying on top of my assignment due dates, and ensuring that my wifi is working prior to using it. At times, technical issues may occur unexpectedly, but that is why it's important to have a backup plan. Also, we must remember to be kind to ourselves as hunching over the computer all day can be painful, mentally and physically. This is why it is extremely important to exercise and take breaks at certain times throughout the day. Exercising is vital for a clear mind, creating a healthy space for learning new information and getting rid of all the stressors that the online learning environment brings on. I also can solve these issues by being flexible and having a back up plan just in case anything goes wrong unexpectedly. I’m ready to be successful this semester, by being prepared for anything and everything that comes my way. Let’s have a great semester!