Lifelong Learning @ UNB
UNB College of Extended Learning

Summer credit courses tend to move faster than other terms, making time management and engagement even more important for success. Here are some key strategies to help you excel.

Start strong & stay organized

• Check your course syllabus early:
  • As soon as you have access to your syllabus, read it over.
  • Make a note of any required readings or textbooks and try to get copies immediately.
• Create a weekly plan:
  • Dedicate a specific day each week to organize your calendar.
  • Block out class times and assignment deadlines. If you're taking a self-paced online course, set a specific time each week to watch the lectures.
  • Allocate blocks of time for studying. Doing focused study sessions of 30-45 minutes can help you better remember and understand the material.
  • Make sure you adjust your digital calendar settings, so you receive email and text reminders for everything.
• Set up a dedicated study space:
  • Having an area designed to your preferences can improve focus and productivity.
  • Do you like cozy enclosed spaces? Hang a curtain around your study space or create a blanket fort. Do fairy lights make you feel calm? Drape some above where you study.
• Treat it like an in-person class:
  • Set regular hours to maintain consistency.
  • Before you begin any online lectures, change into clothes you'd wear to an in-person class. This can help shift your mindset and increase motivation and focus.

Actively participate in your course 

• Engage in online discussions:
  • Participate however you can as often as you can. This will help deepen your understanding of the material and build connections with classmates and instructors.
  • Self-paced classes often have online forums or groups where you can post comments or questions.
  • Term based online classes allow you to ask questions during class (either verbally or using the chat feature).
  • Take advantage of email as well; reach out to your instructors or classmates if you're unsure of anything.
• Take notes like you would in a classroom:
  • It’s important to write down anything you feel is important while you watch the lectures. Writing things down helps with retention.
  • Use shorthand notes and bullet lists to make it easier. Just remember to write out your abbreviations somewhere so you don't forget later on.
  • You should also take notes on your readings. They don't need to be lengthy; bullet point lists are an effective way to jot down a lot of information.

Tailor your learning approach

• Experiment with techniques:
  • Try various study methods, such as summarizing information in your own words, participating in discussion groups, or employing mnemonic devices to find what works best for you.

• Get creative:
  • Enhance your notes with colors, sketches, or infographics to make studying more engaging and cater to visual learning preferences.

Use online tools & resources

• Check for recorded lectures:
  • Rewatching lectures can reinforce complex concepts.
  • Try watching a lecture while you take notes and then watch it a second time without any note taking. Did you catch anything you missed the first time?
• Try productivity apps:
  • Use collaboration apps such as Notion, Slack, Trello, or Google Docs.
  • Try time management programs like Todoist, Remember the Milk, Any.do, etc.
  • Apps such as OneNote, Evernote, or Collanote can help you organize your notes.
  • Take advantage of programs like Quizlet to create flashcards and help you study.
  • Need help with your focus? Forest is a free app that can help you stay off your phone during study times.
  • Pomodoro timers can also help you stay organized.

Stay motivated & avoid burnout 

• Set small, achievable goals:
  • Completing smaller tasks builds momentum.
  • More achievable goals can also help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.
• Take breaks:
  • Short, structured breaks (like the Pomodoro technique) improve focus and prevent fatigue.
  • If you’re comfortable with it, ask friends or family to help keep you accountable when it comes to studying and getting your work done.
• Be kind to yourself:
  • Celebrate small wins, like finishing a chapter or passing a quiz.
  • Try not to let setbacks stop you from trying again.
  • Shift your perspective so that any mistakes or obstacles become learning opportunities on what not to do next time.

Success in an online summer course often comes down to preparation and engagement. Stay proactive, manage your time wisely, and take advantage of all the flexible online options available to you.

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