Tips for Taking Online Classes

Pacific is transitioning to online courses by April 1. Some programs are paused for this transition, while others continue. Learn more about how to make a successful transition to online classes. 

Expectations

• Communicate with instructors about new guidelines for online classes: What will assignments, presentations, and tests look like?
• Be patient: Online classes are new for instructors and students.
• Check emails from the advising center. Academic advisors are available to help you transition to this new method of learning.

Get Organized

• Join or form an online study group (Google Hangouts, Zoom, FT, Slack, etc.).
• Get a planner, calendar or app to stay organized.
• Manage your time and hold yourself accountable.
• Did you know? It takes full-time students nearly 40 hours of additional studying per week. That number jumps to 60-70 hours per week for online classes.

Help is available

• View detailed tips from the Academic & Career Advising Center.
• Check out academic resources like CLASS online peer tutoring, library Chat, and Khan Academy and YouTube.com/KhanAcademy.
• Take a mental health break and call the Student Counseling Center if you need more support.

Home set-up

• Many internet providers are offering free service for students.
• Create a quiet space for learning and studying.
• Keep phone, laptop, tablets and other equipment charged.
• Set up an ergonomic system.
• Have a back-up plan if the internet goes down, like using phone data.

Healthy habits

• Keep your current routine: study, sleep, and eat at the same time.
• Have snacks on hand.
• Exercise.
• Practice deep-breathing or meditate.
• Stay connected while practicing social distancing. Join Netflix Party and view your favorite shows or videos with friends and family.