The prolonged strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has significantly disrupted the academic calendars of federal and state-owned universities.
However, with the recent suspension of the strike, universities are looking to swiftly resume academic activities.
In light of the ongoing pandemic and the possibility of a second wave and subsequent lockdown, it is crucial for students to be well-prepared to embrace virtual learning as an alternative method of education.
This article aims to provide simple and practical tips to help students cope with the challenges ahead.
- Revise and Refresh: After an extended break from studying, it’s essential to start revising your notes as soon as possible. Take the time to refresh your memory and regain the academic momentum. Reviewing your coursework will help you to catch up on missed material and prepare you for the upcoming semester.
- Create a Timetable: To stay organized and focused, develop a timetable that guides your learning schedule. Allocate specific time slots for different subjects or topics, ensuring you have a balanced study routine. By adhering to a structured timetable, you’ll be able to effectively manage your time and cover all necessary coursework.
- Prepare Your Virtual Learning Device: As virtual learning becomes the new norm, it’s vital to have a reliable internet-enabled device. Whether it’s a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or PC, ensure that your device is in good working condition. Verify that you have the necessary software and applications installed to access online learning platforms.
- Secure a Reliable Data Plan: Virtual learning often involves streaming videos, accessing online resources, and participating in video conferences. This can consume a substantial amount of data. To avoid interruptions or unexpected data depletion, it is crucial to have a reliable and sufficient data plan. Consider exploring different network providers to ensure you have a backup plan if one network fails.
- Familiarize Yourself with Virtual Learning Platforms: Take the time to become familiar with various virtual learning platforms. There are numerous websites available, such as Coursera, Udemy, EdX, and Google Classroom, which facilitate eLearning courses. Additionally, platforms like YouTube and Zoom are commonly used for online lectures and discussions. Taking an online course or tutorial can help you become comfortable with the virtual learning environment and maximize your learning experience.
Conclusion
The resumption of academic activities following the suspension of the ASUU strike presents both challenges and opportunities for students.
Despite the academic backlog, the adoption of virtual learning methods and platforms provides a way forward.
By promptly revising your notes, creating a timetable, preparing your devices and data plans, and familiarizing yourself with virtual learning platforms, you can effectively adapt to the changing educational landscape.
Embrace this opportunity to enhance your learning journey and make the most of the upcoming semester. Stay tuned for our next article, where we will delve into comprehensive guidelines on how to prepare adequately for virtual learning during this short holiday.