Distance learning can be isolating. Make sure you keep in touch with your peers and friends. This is especially the case in the current COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, it is important for you to stay connected.
Help is here if you need it
These are challenging times for all of us, and everyone has different pressures on them managing their studies, work and personal lives. Sometimes you might feel a bit overwhelmed by it all, and that is ok. We should all make that little bit more effort to look out for each other.
If you feel that you need additional support, our Student Support Teams are available for each campus.
Tools to keep connected
When working online, keeping in regular contact with your classmates is important. Your lecturers will provide lots of opportunities for you to work with other students online through interactive activities, so try to really engage with these opportunities.
Use your college Office 365 account to access Microsoft Teams, or free platforms such as Zoom, Facetime, and other messenger apps. Find a platform that works best for you and stay connected online:
Study together
Setting up an online study group is a great way to keep in contact and stay motivated. If you don't already have a group, try messaging your class to see who is interested in setting one up.
Once you have your study group in place, arrange regular times to meet up, be it weekly or daily. This way you can consistently check-in with friends and classmates.
Keep up with your coffee dates
Just because you are physically distancing doesn't mean you have to give up your regular routines. Set up a regular 'coffee date' each morning to catch up. Making this your routine will help ease the difficulty of being isolated and is a great way to start the day.
Take some time to chill
Studying together is a great way to keep motivated and stay on top of assignments, but down time is important too. Take a moment to relax and do something fun with your classmates.
The options are endless. You can set up a Netflix viewing party, organise a trivia or game night or just for a group chat. All that matters is you are still connected.
Get physical
During stressful times, physical activity can have immediate benefits to your wellbeing, so why not bring your friends along with you.
Try organising a video chat and setting up an exercise regime. You can all have a go at planning a workout, or use one of the many available exercise apps. Set goals for your group, and encourage each other to stay on track.
Just keep talking
We've said it before, but the most important thing to remember during isolation is to stay in contact, no matter what your preferred method. Whether it's in your study groups, hangout sessions or coffee dates, try and keep talking as much as possible.
Contact the LRC
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For support with:
LRC Resources - using and accessing your LRC e-books & e-resources
Your college systems - including password resets
