By Candice Zhang
Fall 2020 is looking a lot different than anticipated. Adjusting to the ‘new normal’ is a challenge for many students, especially those in more hands-on programs. Although most students at George Brown College (GBC) are now attending classes via Blackboard Collaborate, some are still physically participating in traditional classrooms and completing projects. Regardless of the course’s delivery method, keeping track of assignments and deadlines is more of a hassle throughout the pandemic.
The Dialog wants you to be prepared and organized for the upcoming semesters. Student life is draining, but with the correct tips and tricks, you will be able to achieve and go beyond your academic goals. We have summarized some tips and resources for academic support and accommodation within the college community.
Tips:
1 – Build a Study Space
Studying and participating in classes from home is a drastic change in terms of the environment. Since many events are occurring simultaneously, students may find it difficult to focus on assignments. However, creating a study space may be the answer to ease all the distractions. Mohammad Sarker, the SAGBC’s academic coordinator, says “students should get dressed and attend class from [the] study space, [instead of] the bed.” Organizing a study space may help the student become more productive and finish their tasks step by step. Long story short: try to find a way to simulate the school environment as much as possible.
2 – Change your mindset
Some may perceive online learning to be inconvenient and inefficient, but that doesn’t mean it’s true. Having a negative mindset can affect our actions and perceptions, and it may be difficult for us to overcome the barriers of online learning. But if we want to finish the semester strong, we need to change our perception of online classes. Indeed, online classes are different from physical classes, but it doesn’t mean that they are much worse. Although our courses may not cover the practical aspects as much, we can still learn and benefit from new material.
3 – Prepare a study plan
Being organized and prepared for upcoming tests is one of the first steps for achieving academic success. As soon as your instructor assigns a new project, remember to schedule the assignment and implement a plan for finishing it. Use the same process to prepare for tests and exams as well. If you keep on doing this for the whole semester, you will have no problem accomplishing your assignments and tasks by (or before) the due date.
4 – Use time before class to meditate
One silver lining of remote education is not spending multiple hours of our day commuting to campus anymore. Since classes are delivered remotely, students will just have to travel from their bedrooms to their laptops. Nevertheless, using the one-hour period before class for exercises is crucial for our mental and physical well-being. Sarker says that “We should instead allocate the time needed on commuting for yoga and physical exercises instead”.
5 – Always reach out to your instructors.
Even though opening up to instructors can be intimidating at first, we need to understand that teachers can help us resolve our concerns and guide us throughout the course. Moreover, teachers can provide clarifications on certain assignments and rubrics, as well as help us prepare for upcoming quizzes and exams. Sarker also encourages students to do this by “never hesitating to ask questions to the teacher about course discussions”.
6 – Keep your cell phone away
We all feel the need to check our messages and emails during class time. Unfortunately, having electronic devices near the study space can be a distraction, especially during a lecture. Understanding the material will be more difficult if we aren’t listening to class. Putting the cellphone away will prevent us from checking social media often. As a result, we will be more attentive to the course material and learn more from class.
7 – Create a study group with friends but don’t plagiarize
After meeting new people from your classes, try to create a WhatsApp study group. If anyone has a question, they can ask in the group chat and someone will be able to guide them. Having support and camaraderie will help you navigate a new learning environment. Keep in mind that studying is not a competition, but a collaborative process, with no room for plagiarism. Always know the boundary between guiding someone and giving your work for them to copy.
Resources
If you are seeking any academic support and accommodation, visit some of the departments listed below. Some of the resources are part of SAGBC, which funds The Dialog.
Peer Connect
https://www.georgebrown.ca/current-students/services/peerconnect
For students who need guidance on finding resources, building skills, and navigating the college community. The department also hosts workshops as well.
Accessible Learning Services
Providing academic supports and services for students with physical, learning, and mental health disabilities.
Email: dkezima@georgebrown.ca
Find out how to register here
Career Services
For networking and training to prepare for finding a job.
Peer Support Coaching is available from Monday – Friday 9:30 am – 3:30 pm (at the Virtual Career Centre Front Desk on Blackboard)
Virtual appointments can be booked through GBCareers.
Counselling Services
For academic, career, and mental-health counselling for all students part of the GBC community.
Book an appointment here.
Indigenous Education and Services
Guiding Indigenous students through college resources, activities, and cultural teachings and workshops.
Sahkitcheway (St. James Campus): Room 562D, 220 King St E, Toronto
Wi Chi Hito Win (Casa Loma Campus): Room 335D, 160 Kendal Ave, Toronto
Email: Indigenous.services@georgebrown.ca
Phone: 416-415-5000 ext. 3969
Library Learning Commons
Text: 647-931-1830
Research Help Service Hours: Monday-Friday (6:00 a.m – 12:00 a.m.), Saturday – Sunday (11:00 am – 5:00 pm).
Phone for General Inquiries: 416-415-5000 ext. 8255
Click here to send an email.
Student Academic Support Program (SAGBC)
To access tools and accommodation for achieving academic success.
Email: academicsupport@sagbc.ca
Phone: 416-415-5000 ext. 6320
Click here to make an appointment.
