Make the most out of your NYLC online classes - Part II

Dear Students,

It’s been a while since we last touched base and checked in with each other. How are you doing? It’s been more than 7 weeks since classes have gone online and we wanted to first say thank you for sticking with us! Since it still remains unclear for when we will be able to return to the classrooms for in-person instruction, we wanted to share a few more tips that can contribute to successful online learning. Let's begin!

TIP 1: BE present (turn on your camera!): We understand that some of us can be shy in front of the camera but being present is more than just signing in to your class. It’s important that you are ACTIVELY present. In the virtual world, this includes keeping your camera on (whenever possible) and engaging with your teacher and classmates. There’s a lot that can be communicated through gestures which is key when learning a language! Keeping your camera on will make your online class experience more similar to an in-person class. In other words, your class should feel less like a webinar and more like the LIVE, interpersonal, interactive experience that it is! So go on, turn on your camera and connect better with your class.  The initial awkwardness will wear off and you will have a much better and richer experience. We promise!


TIP 2: Take (good) notes: Now more than ever, taking notes is crucial to your learning experience. Don’t rely online on digital resources. Taking notes (by hand) will help you assimilate the lesson better, it will keep you more focused and engaged with class and you will have physical material to rely on and come back to if you have any doubts before your next class. Write down the examples that your teacher gives, take notes of the homework, write any pages from the book that you need to review, etc.

TIP 3: Stay connected even during the break (if possible): When class is going on, a lot of the information goes in the chat that you and your classmates and teacher use. I recommend that as much as possible you stay connected during the break since logging off means losing all the information from the group chat. If, for any reason, you do need to log off, get in the habit of copy and pasting this information onto a personal file so you can hold on to this important info!

TIP 4: Set up your space: In other words, set yourself up for success. We know it is tempting to stay in bed all morning and take your class from it but the reality is that doing so will not help you be focused and productive. We are all different but I can take a guess that you will feel better if you take time to set up your space. If possible, find a space where you can sit straight, open a window (if available), change into some comfy clothes that are NOT your pajamas, have some coffee or tea, prepare your notebook and pen/pencil.

TIP 5: Stay positive (we are trying too): We get it! We want to be back to school too and we want things to go back to normal. We understand that this is a difficult, unusual, inconvenient situation but don’t forget: we are all in this together. Choose to remain positive and to make the most out of the situation. We are lucky to be able to connect you with your favorite teachers and to be able to continue to have you in class. We are lucky to have really wonderful students who have been patient and understanding throughout this difficult time. Know that we do not take you for granted and that we are here for you!

You got this! (We got this!) :)
Isabel & the Team NYLC