Back to school study tips during a pandemic vary based on if students are returning to a traditional classroom with additional safety measures or virtual learning at home. For some families, it will be a mix of the two with hybrid learning. How students return to school may feel out-of-control right now. Collectively, we are facing uncertainty with each of us hoping for no further disruptions.
It’s important that parents and students be patient and flexible during the back to school transition. Remember we are all going through this unimaginable time in history together. Designing a study plan may help give you a little sense of control in these chaotic times.
Here are some study tips to help as some or all classwork moves online and/or remote in the coming school year:
1. Stay Organized –
Creating organization goals from the beginning will help the student and parents stay on track. Maintaining a weekly or daily calendar helps organize your time. Older students might use an APP or smartphone widget, while young learners may do well with a whiteboard or chalkboard to visualize the day ahead.
2. Set a Schedule –
A study schedule can provide structure and keep students motivated to finish their assignments and homework, especially for virtual classrooms or distance learning. Don’t forget to include time for exercise and fresh air. Self-care is essential!
3. Change Up Your Routine
Routines may have to adjust as the school year unfolds. Finding ways to adapt to usual study habits and form new ones is a good way to practice flexibility and build resilience. This can be done by occasionally changing the study environment, moving rooms within your home, or studying outdoors if/when possible, etc.
4. Stay Connected
As the face-to-face time we spend with others becomes limited, staying connected with family and friends is even more important. Staying in touch with instructors and classmates via Zoom or small group meetings can help foster a sense of normalcy. FUN STUDY TIP: Weather permitting, create an outdoor learning space where small groups of students can study “together.” Finding safe opportunities for kids to engage with one another keeps friendships and connections strong.
5. Need Help? Get Support When it’s Needed
Back to school stress is affecting many, if not most, families right now. The academic disruption in the spring is still fresh in the minds of parents, teachers, and students as the new pandemic school year begins. Zier Institute Study Partners program helps alleviate some of the pressure parents feel by providing students with a “study buddy” to guide them through the transition back to school and beyond.
Read 12 Study Tips for Back to School for even more ideas!