How to Prepare for Virtual Learning

With the strike action of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) called off and the second phase of the COVID-19 pandemic still rising, it is obvious that tertiary institutions would have to rely on virtual learning to continue academic activities. So how then can one prepare for virtual learning?

Recall that the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) embarked on a strike action that lasted for 9 months, which brought a pause to all forms of academic activities in Nigerian public and state-owned universities. The situation was quite opposite for their private universities counterparts who adopted various forms and methods of eLearning systems.

The pressure right now is more for the public and state-owned universities who are very much behind academically and the new curve created by the pandemic is not helping matters, because a possible and physical resumption is not quite possible yet and still, academic activities must go on so that the public and state-owned universities would catch up to their private counterparts.

So how are you preparing for resumption?

We understand that a good number of university students (federal and state-owned) would not be familiar with virtual learning platforms and methods. This is why we are bringing this article to you to help prepare you for virtual learning during this short holiday as this is the only time you got.

How to Prepare for Virtual Learning During the Holiday

• Ask your private university counterparts: A good way to start understanding virtual learning is by asking students of private universities. Almost, if not all private universities in Nigeria were fully functional with various eLearning methods during the first phase of the pandemic. How then was it done, ask questions, and try to see the interface they made use of and get familiar with them?
• Use search engines: This is another way to go – google it out. There are thousands of virtual learning methods your school could adapt and google could give you hints already.
• Get your devices ready for virtual learning: You would now need a long-lasting and strong internet device to be able to participate in the virtual learning process, get your phones, tablet, laptop or PC in order before the New Year. The article below contains all the items you need before school resumes: 

Recommended: Ten (10) Affordable Devices for Virtual Learning

• Take Computer Appreciation Courses: Find someone to tutor you on how to use your computer more efficiently if you are not so good at it. You need to learn how to handle your mouse, master a Computer Keyboard, use application software such as MS Word for typing, MS Excel for tabulation and data management, and MS PowerPoint for presentations, etc. You should also learn how to attach and send a file(s) to an email address(es).
• Increase your typing speed: No matter the device you intend to use – smartphone, desktop computer, tablet, or laptop you should learn how to have a very good typing speed as exams, tests and other forms of assessment might all be done online.
• Learn how to be accurate: Errors tend to be much for a lot of folks when typing with computers, smartphones, etc. you should learn how to avoid them. Try to be as accurate as possible.

Remember, most of these schools are 2 – 3 semesters backward, and a new session is already here. Slowing down is not really an option. So prepare yourself for it.