My tips for creating a comfortable study environment are :
- If you do not have a designated study at home, then find a table or desk that is comfortable for you to work at. The table or desk must be the correct height.
- Ensure that the chair you choose has adequate support for your back as you will be sitting for lengthy periods of time while studying or working on an assignment.
- If possible find an area that is well lit and that has adequate ventilation to prevent fatigue from setting in.
- Choose an area that maybe has a window as this will enable you to feel peaceful while working. You can also choose an area with a picture above your computer, such as mine that provides a sense of tranquility.
- Ensure that your workspace is clear so that you can set out your textbooks and notebooks with enough arm room to write and to move about.
- It is important that while you are working to take a break and to move around your home so that you keep adequate circulation moving and to prevent boredom and fatigue from setting in.
- Try to position your work area away from the kitchen and nowhere near to a television as these are very distracting and can lead to the temptation to eat and to watch your favorite TV progamme as opposed to studying.
- Lay out your necessary stationery so that once you do begin to study there is no need to waste time trying to find hi-lighters etc.
Staying motivated:
- It’s important to stick to the same daily routine that you would normally follow on a day when you are able to go into your college to study.
- Have a plan of action for the day so that you have a balance between study time, eating, resting and finding time for family.
- Take advantage of the fact that you have time to start your day either in prayer or with a motivating talk with a parent or sibling who is also at home experiencing the same emotions that you are.
- Utilize your Whatsapp groups and discussions that are available on ColCampus so that you feel connected with students studying the same course or module as you.
- Utilize the messaging system available on Colcampus to ask your educator/s relevant questions and especially ones when you are experiencing challenges with your studies. This will ensure that you continue to feel positive about the subject and so that you can then “master” a section you might possibly have been battling with and this will enable you to move forward and to see progress.
- Remember that this is a temporary situation and that if you continue to find something positive to be grateful and thankful for every day this will also enable you to find pleasure in the little things.
