How to Prepare for A Successful Year at an Online School

With over 20 years of experience in online education, we’ve seen a thing or two. From the ever-changing technology to students coming and going, there are a few things we’ve learned over the years that we try to communicate to our new students in order to ensure a fun and successful time here at BlueSky.

Last year brought us many challenges that we didn’t anticipate but together we pulled through and are better for it. This fall will no doubt be somewhat difficult for students both online and in traditional schools, but we want to share our knowledge with those who are going to be utilizing online either full or part-time.

If you’re new or returning to online school, read on for some of our top tips on how to prepare for the upcoming school year.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

When you’re learning online, it can require a little more planning than just walking into a traditional school. Find a way to get organized that suits you. That could look like getting a paper planner and writing out your schedule, or using a digital to-do list to list your daily tasks and classes.

Breaks are also important when sitting at a computer for a long time, so plan out a day that includes a break or two. Some of our students like to take the dog for a walk between classes or break for snacks a few times. Whatever gets you away from the computer and gives your brain a little break will make your day run much smoother.

Planning is also an important tool to stay on top of coursework. Online school provides a lot of independence, so it’s up to students to self-advocate and get homework in on time. We are certainly supportive and communicative with all of our students, we are here to cheer you on! But making a clear plan that makes time for coursework will help to create structure and routine.

Connect With Your Administration

Just because our students are not physically with us during the school year, doesn’t mean we don’t connect with them just as much as a traditional school. In fact, we put in that much more effort to support and connect with our students because we know how isolating virtual learning can be. We’ve mastered the art of connection without physical proximity. Every BlueSky student is assigned a supportive team made up of a teacher, a counselor, and a social worker. This team helps students reach their goals while feeling seen as a student and as a young adult.

Taking the time to connect with your administration sets the tone for the year and helps students feel more engaged with their education and their teachers.

Be Active in Participation

Learning online requires self-motivation and participation in classes is key. During live classes, make it a priority to participate as much as possible as it will help you learn more and become acquainted with your teacher and other students. Make sure to stay on top of any online forums and use them to engage with other students. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and use forums to start discussion boards.

The flexibility of online school gives you the chance to connect at any time! Use this to your advantage by collaborating with students on your own time.

Our goal is to help you be and feel successful as a learner and as a human being. Even though we may have you for just one or two classes, we want you to feel like we “see” you, we get you, and that we’ve got your back. Learn about us by getting in touch!