For those who you who have never taken a course with us, we offer short courses in a range of subjects from writing to computing, languages, business, and creative industries. Catering to the busy schedules of professionals and lifelong learners, most of our courses are ten-weeks long, but we also offer one or two-day workshops, and the majority are delivered via Zoom or Teams. With the new academic year around the corner, we’ve compiled a list of practical tips to help you get the most out of your learning experience while studying from home.

 1. Stick to a Schedule

Consistency is key to managing your time effectively. Treat your online course schedule as you would a traditional in-person class. Mark your calendar with class times and allocate specific periods for reviewing materials, completing assignments, and participating in discussions.

2. Actively Engage in Classes

Active participation is crucial in an online learning environment. Keep your camera on if possible, ask questions, and contribute to discussions. Engaging with your tutor and classmates will enhance your understanding and make the learning experience more interactive, and more enjoyable

3. Stay Organised

Keeping your course materials organised can save you time and stress. Use digital folders to store notes, assignments, and readings. Tools like Google Drive, OneNote, or Evernote can help you keep everything in one place and easily accessible.

4. Take Regular Breaks

Sitting in front of a computer for extended periods can be tiring. Incorporate short breaks into your study sessions to stretch, hydrate, and relax. The Pomodoro Technique—studying for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break—can be an effective way to maintain concentration and engagement.

5. Network with Fellow Students

Building connections with your peers can enhance your learning experience and provide support throughout the course. Participate in group activities, or create a study group to collaborate and share insights.

6. Practice Good Posture

Maintaining good posture is essential for physical comfort and health while learning from home. Try to ensure your chair provides proper support, keep your feet flat on the ground, and position your screen at eye level to prevent neck and back strain.

7. Enhance Your Technical Skills

Familiarise yourself with Zoom, and Teams used for your courses. Make sure you iron out any login difficulties way ahead of the first session. Learn how to navigate these tools effectively, including using breakout rooms. This will help you avoid technical difficulties and participate more effectively in class.

8. Stay Motivated and Set Goals

Short courses can be intense, so staying motivated is crucial. Set clear, achievable goals for what you want to accomplish each week. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remind yourself of the reasons you enrolled in the course.

9. Seek Feedback and Support

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your tutor for feedback on your work or clarification on course materials. All our lecturers are happy to answer questions about the course content and delivery and to help you with any issues that arise.

10. Explore Opportunities 

City short courses has a range of opportunities available to students on particular courses. Familiarise yourself with what’s on offer, e.g. current and past writing students are eligible for our termly City Writes Competition, and make sure you make the most of your time at City.

Enrolling in a City short online course offers a fantastic opportunity to advance your knowledge and skills in a convenient and flexible format. By following these tips, you can help maximise your learning experience and achieve your goals. Happy learning!

For those who would like to try out one of our short courses, we are running an online open evening on September 11 2024, with tasters in a variety of subjects. Attendance is free but you’ll need to register to secure your spot. Full details are here.