Rylie Horrall |  Lifestyle Editor

Like most universities in Oregon, Western has switched to having entirely remote classes for spring term. Unlike having only one or two online classes during a term, having to manage all courses online is a challenge for both students and professors. Sure, maybe there’s more time to get homework and assignments done, but is there really? For me, being at home 24/7 can make it difficult to get everything done, so here are a few tips to help with managing an online class schedule.

With no reason to commute to campus, students have an opportunity to sleep in more. But now, there’s the risk of literally sleeping through classes. Set alarms to, one, give enough time to make some coffee and eat breakfast — or lunch, depending on the time — and two, make sure those Zoom and WebEx meetings aren’t forgotten about. 

For some courses, professors have chosen to only hold meetings once a week or even every other week. This can further lead to overlooking the gathering dates, if a person isn’t careful. Mark the days on a calendar when a class assembles; if this is done on a phone calendar, it will send you updates at set intervals, such as 15 minutes before the scheduled meeting. Additionally, this can be done for assignments and tests.

To keep up with assignments, put aside designated times where classes aren’t appointed for homework and studying. It’ll probably be easier for assignments that have a set due date each week, as the elected time can be the same each week as well. That being said, have some free time set aside for those projects that do not have a consistent schedule; if there isn’t more studying to do, then congrats — relaxation time begins early.

For students who are struggling with these online classes due to poor internet access or lack-there-of, Hamersly Library is offering WiFi hotspots to students on a first-come first-serve basis. To get on the list, visit library.wou.edu/hotspots-waitlist/ or look at the library’s website for more information.

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Photo by Rylie Horrall