As you continue to navigate learning and studying in a virtual environment you may be wondering how to manage your time effectively. Victoria Wylie from the Learning Support Centre, answers some common time management questions and provides tips to help boost your productivity.
4 time management tips for learning online:
What are some common challenges people experience with time management?
There are a few common challenges that many people have when it comes to managing their time such as procrastinating and undervaluing the time needed to complete a task.
Personally, I think the most pressing mistake is failing to prioritize.
How can I prioritize my tasks?
Plan ahead!
I always create a calendar for myself, so I know what is happening each day.
For students, I recommend using your learning plans and MyCanvas calendar to keep track of your assignments. Then, break down the larger tasks and assignments into smaller chunks. This will help reduce feeling overwhelmed and allow you to see the progress being made towards your goals.
Give yourself a reasonable amount of time to complete each assignment and remember to schedule in study sessions.
How can I limit my distractions?
Perhaps you have a dedicated study space, an office or a quiet bedroom where you can shut the door and focus. Or maybe you are working at the kitchen table with roommates or family members gathering around throughout the day.
Whatever the situation, distractions are going to pop up!
Distractions can break your focus and lead to less information being retained, so try using some of these tips to limit environmental and technical distractions:
Wear headphones to block out noise; playing instrumental music can also help
Try to find a secluded space, or let family/roommates know that you need some time to focus
Add an app blocker to phones/computers like Cold Turkey or App Detox
Set a timer to take breaks
How can I balance my academic and personal lives?
Schedule in rewards, allow for flexibility, and take time for yourself! Life happens and things come up – often without notice. So, prioritize your time and adapt as necessary.
It’s ok to take a break from your computer. Taking care of oneself is important so students don’t end up with Zoom fatigue!
Be sure to also reward yourself after a good study session or a productive day.
There are lots of strategies for improving your time management skills.
My overall Top 5 Time Management Tips are:
Find a quiet space to work and remove distractions
Make a weekly to-do list using your learning plan
Schedule in study sessions (individual or with a group)
Avoid procrastinating – just get started!
Treat your time online as seriously as a face-to-face commitment
For more information or questions, please contact lsc [at] mohawkcollege.ca (lsc[at]mohawkcollege[dot]ca)
