Fall Kick Off
Back-to-School 2021 is underway! We hope that your fall semester is off to a good start. Most students we work with are doing some form of blended learning where the in-class instruction is supplemented with online learning tools. We'd like to share some tips for setting up your home environment for learning and studying.
Creating an Effective At-Home Workspace
It's usually easier to change your environment than it is to change your behavior. Get off on the right foot by optimizing your workspace. These tips apply to both adults and kids! 1) Externalize your thoughts. Stuck on a problem? Not sure how to kick off a paper or a project? Get it out of your head! Use whiteboards, chalkboards, or scrap paper to facilitate brainstorming. Also, try talking it over with a family member or a friend. (Have them ask you open-ended questions.) 2) Remove distractions. Physically unplug the TV and game consoles. Install apps on your computer and phone that prohibit accessing websites or apps during certain study hours. 3) Ask your family to respect your study space. Set clear expectations that when you are studying, you are not be be disturbed. 4) Invest in computer accessories. Most students are using the computer for several hours per day. Consider getting a full-size keyboard, Bluetooth mouse, foam wrist supports, and other devices that make your life easier. Many adults use a second monitor to facilitate their work - students can also benefit from this as well! 5) Get a printer! Trying to keep everything on your computer is taxing for your working memory. We suggest printing out your class slides, worksheets and notes and file them in a binder for easy access. 6) Have a big workspace and spread out. This way, you can keep several books and binders open at the same time. Working at a small desk (or in your bed) can inhibit your productivity. 7) You don't need to have a pretty workspace. It's okay if you have your papers scattered and binders open - as long as you have a system of organization. If you can find it, it's not disorganized. It does not have to appear neat or pretty to be functional. 8) Seek external help when needed! Parents hold so many roles in the household. Adding a role as teacher or taskmaster might push your family dynamic to a breaking point. Use friends, teachers, other family members or external specialists to help fill these roles.
Star Tutoring: Online | In Center | In Home
Please let us know how we can support you and your students this fall semester. We are available for free consultations and we love to share learning tips and strategies. While most of our clients choose to work with us on a regular weekly basis, we also offer ad hoc academic support. If you have family or friends that need help, please share Star Tutoring with them. As a local Dallas business, we appreciate your support! Sam Barnes Owner and Center Director