5 Tips for Navigating the Online/Virtual Learning Process

I have to say that as an ADHD Student Coach, we've been inundated with questions this week as to how to navigate the new online/virtual learning process that is now a "new normal" for most students. Especially those with accommodations, IEPs and 504s. I spend my days coaching high school & college students with ADHD, and planning and implementing study structures or plans is something we work on almost daily. Here are a few strategies to try:

1. Try Body Doubling.

A “body double” functions as an anchor. The presence of another individual – either in person or virtually – focuses a person and makes it possible to sit down, focus, and get work done.

Do your kids know other students in their classes? If not, is it possible for the school (with permission) to release names and emails? Sometimes students taking the same class will form a Facebook group to discuss assignments and tests. Perhaps your student can reach out to someone who might also be in need of a “study buddy” so they can support each other to stay anchored, focused, and on task.

2. Schedule “Class Time.”

Have your student stay on the same schedule as they had while taking their classes on campus This step is critical for success. If they don't plan their time, the likelihood of keeping up with the work is slim. Have them think of it this way: If they had to be physically present for class, they would set their alarm and get themselves out the door to make sure they showed up on time. An online class needs to be treated with the same importance. So making these non-negotiable appointments is critical to their study plan success.

3. Write It Down.

Whether they use a paper planner or an online calendar, they need to write down their plan the same way they would a doctor’s appointment or office hours with their professor. If they give their study time the same importance as their other appointments, they are more likely to honor it in the same way.

4. Create a Motivating Work Environment.

Environment plays a HUGE role in how we get things done. So have your student set up her homework area so it entices her to use it! Do fun pens or pretty notepads get them going? Do they like to surround by colorful objects to feel energized? Do they have a favorite food to nibble while they work? Or do they need their favorite playlist to get into gear? Always relying on our own internal motivation is exhausting! So have them use a motivating work environment instead!

5. Reach out to your Student Disability Office and Professors asap.

If you have accommodations, now is the time to work out how those are going to translate to an online learning environment. Do you need audiobooks? Time with your professor so they can help you break down assignments? Extra time on papers and projects since you are working alone? Try to work it all out now so you can plan properly.

Most importantly, breathe. Take it day-by-day. Everyone is working to figure out this new normal. We at Order Out Of Chaos are here to help.

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