Home Environment for Online Studies

A student enrolled in online course needs to have the appropriate technology. Before beginning a course, consider a personal project to install appropriate software, Internet browser versions, and multimedia plug-ins. This ensures that the technology will work and provide the best learning experience.

With online learning, you will not have the regular day to day interaction with teachers and fellow students. Create an effective learning environment where they plan to study. Put other work away, out of sight, and stay focused. Try to minimize any distractions. Different learning styles will dictate different learning environment practices, but make a space especially for learning.

Creating A Workspace
As you prepare to begin your online student experience, thought and planning should be given to your workspace. Where will you study? What equipment will you need? A quiet, comfortable, organized workspace is a prerequisite for productive study. Some things to think about:

Choose a quiet, dedicated study space away from disturbing noise and activity.
Create a studying space and not an entertainment space. Move the computer away from the T.V. and stereo room. However, contrary to popular belief, not everyone needs to study in a perfectly quiet environment. If you do choose to study to music, choose Baroque classical music. The tempo and instrumentation of this music seems to be most compatible with study and learning.
While you can’t always control the temperature of a room, you should be aware of your preference for either a cool or warm environment. Try to minimize distraction and make yourself comfortable by establishing comforting temperature in the room or wearing appropriate clothes.
Ensure your work area has the electrical outlets you will need to support your computer, printer, etc.
Your work area should have access to phone, cable modem, or other Internet connection (such as a DSL jack). Note that dial-up or generally slow and unreliable Internet connection might negatively impact your efficient studying process, and even drive you crazy due to the delays.
Studies have shown that some people become depressed because of light deprivation during the winter months. If you are one of those people, you should try to study and spend as much time as possible in highly lit places. Other studies have shown that reading ability can be affected by the light contrast between print and paper color. There is a high contrast between black letters printed on white paper. Some people find it easier to read black print on blue or gray paper which has less contrast and is easier on their eyes. Being aware that light does make a difference, you should study in the environment that best matches your learning preferences.
An ergonomic chair is also essential. Select a chair specifically designed for computer work; choose something comfortable and appropriately-sized for both you and your study space.
Make sure your PC and all its peripherals (speakers, printer, monitor) are working properly before you start your tasks.
If you share the computer, work out a timetable. Keep to it, otherwise arguments will happen! Show times when you have to participate in compulsory online sessions for your course.