For many students, having classes online makes them easily distracted. They face challenges when learning online.
A main source of distraction is digital technology. While electronic devices are required for online learning, they easily steal attention for long periods of time. Most students will hold their phones or leave them on their desks while studying. There is no doubt that during this time a text message from a friend can start a conversation that results in totally ignoring an assignment. Students might open new tabs to watch a fun video or scroll through social media threads. To overcome this challenge, students are encouraged to put all devices out of sight while working and build a solid timetable.
In addition to electronic devices, background noises can be a huge obstacle when it comes to online learning. In fact, sitting in a silent environment often emphasizes background noises even more. Television, family members, pets running in the house, or siblings listening to loud music can all be sources of interruption. Even weather can be a distraction! Imagine a strong wind blowing through the trees or a loud thunderstorm with rain. All these noises can end up disrupting students and affecting their study. A pair of headphones can minimize noise and help students stay on task.
Indeed, where and how we study can be a source of distraction as well. Some students wear comfortable pajamas while lying on their beds with laptops to watch class lectures. This can be a problem for concentration because humans mentally associate the bed with resting. Likewise, kitchens raise even more problems! Thinking about food frequently can disturb studying or cause a student to miss part of the class. This problem can be solved by trying to slowly train the brain to separate school time from resting and eating time. Also, a student can grab a light snack before class starts or even before starting an assignment.
Different students face different challenges at home. Students need to figure out ways to ensure they stay on track to achieve their academic goals.