Whether for an academic pursuit or upskilling, online learning is a practical and cost-efficient way to attain valuable knowledge and skills. However, this learning method comes with challenges, too. Not everyone finds it easy to sit down and absorb information on their screen for hours on end. While the internet provides a myriad of ways to learn, it’s also easy to get distracted online.
Consistency and learning efficiency do not simply materialize. They are the results of implementing proper digital workspace strategies with purpose. This article will explore such strategies so you won’t waste your precious study time.
Setting Up Your Physical Workspace First
Before diving into the digital aspect, it’s best to start with your physical learning environment. In an ideal setup, your study area should be situated far from your bed and any place of leisure.
If you don’t have the luxury of wide spaces, then at the very least, having a clean desk and surroundings helps set the mood for studying. It’s all about making efforts to get into the study flow once you sit down.
It’s obvious that you need a reliable internet connection and a capable computer or laptop. However, there’s an argument for using devices that are good enough to run learning software but can’t run high-end games. This way, you won’t be tempted to play while studying. If you can afford it, consider getting a separate laptop just for studying.
Organizing Your Digital Files
An unorganized digital file system, just like a messy desk, can hinder your ability to learn efficiently. Before you find your desktop flooded with notes and random files, you should have a structure for organizing your documents.
Start by creating one folder for all your major subjects and then create subfolders for assignments, lectures, and notes. Remember to have a consistent naming convention for your documents.
For example, include time or date indicators on their names, such as “week1_lecture.” This will prevent confusion and make the files easier to search.
Organize with cloud storage platforms
You know what would make your folder structure better? Having them be easily accessible on any device. This is where cloud storage excels. Not only are your files protected in a secure digital environment, but you won’t have to bring your laptop every time if you want to do some quick lesson reviews.
Choosing the Right Learning Apps and Related Tools
With all of the apps out there related to online learning, which one should you choose? It depends on the type of online learning you’re enrolled in. If you’re in an online school, they will already have recommended apps and platforms for their students.
If you are self-learning, you’ll have to spend time evaluating many apps. Check all the features to see if they align with your learning goals. Consider apps that offer self-paced learning and allow offline access to learning materials.
Take better notes with apps
At first, it might seem unnecessary to rely on a separate app for such a simple task as taking notes. However, a good note-taking app is more than just a virtual notepad. The best ones come with features to better organize notes and integrate multimedia files, such as links, pictures, and more.
Avoid distraction with website blockers
Website blockers are also worth installing if you find yourself doom-scrolling instead of studying. Outside of studying, these blockers can also help you kick the unproductive habit of mindless scrolling, assuming you use them regularly.
Secure accounts with a password manager
What does this have to do with learning? Well, let’s say you’re using multiple learning platforms and study tools. A password manager helps consolidate all of your login credentials, securing all of your accounts. After all, it’s best to have fewer things to think and worry about so you can focus on learning. Think of this as more of a complementary tool.
Managing Time Effectively
All of the time spent organizing folders and choosing the right apps will be for nothing if you don’t actually use your time to study and learn.
There’s no single technique that works for everyone when it comes to time management. You can try the classic Pomodoro technique. This involves dividing your study time into 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks in between. One cycle consists of 4 repetitions.
There’s also the 10-minute rule for momentum, which is a way to beat mental resistance. Just study for 10 minutes—and after the time is up, you can decide if you want to continue, take a break, or do something else.
If dividing time isn’t to your liking, you can schedule your study session based on your energy levels. Just take note of what time of the day you feel most energized and schedule your study sessions during that time.
It’s worth noting that a lot of learning platforms have features to help you with time management. Study session schedulers, progress trackers, deadline setters, etc., are just some of these features.
Enhancing Access and Security
In every step of optimizing your digital workspace, access, and security are things that should be constantly kept in mind. For example, it certainly sucks if you’re in a region with heavy restrictions on education websites in the platform. It’s a good thing virtual private networks exist.
An easy-to-use VPN is great for bypassing regional restrictions, giving you more access to educational materials you wouldn’t see otherwise. Plus, you get to maintain privacy while browsing and learning online.
Regarding security, protecting your data isn’t just about safeguarding your information. It’s also about making sure your studies are not interrupted by cyber threats. Imagine if you have an exam coming up soon, and instead of studying, you have to deal with a ransomware attack. That’s a scenario no student wants to be in.
Take Control of Your Digital Workspace
Whether you are studying to get into a profession or just to improve your existing skills, you’ll be spending a lot of hours on your digital workspace. That’s why it cannot be emphasized enough how crucial it is to configure it in ways that best serve your study needs. Get those apps, find the tricks that work for you, and stay secure while burning the midnight oil. Keep learning and stay informed!
