Creating the Best Study Space for Online Learning

Your child is much more likely to embrace their student workspace if they are part of the process. If you don’t have much room to spare, that’s ok! Get creative and be sure to stay positive. Transitioning from a classroom setting to an at-home learning space has its challenges, but it also has advantages. Encourage your child to talk about the pros and cons of distanced learning as you work together to create a study space that sets them up for success.

A stable internet connection and a reliable device for video conferencing are the two most essential ingredients for successful online learning. Check in with your student throughout the day to make sure all essential technology is working as it should and the internet connection is strong. Consider hardwiring your internet for increased speed and reliability. Staying connected also means keeping the lines of human communication among your child, the teachers, and yourself open and transparent. Hang a dry erase board next to the student’s workspace to keep track of assignments.

How is the lighting in the areas of your home to be used as a home office or student workspace? If you are repurposing a corner of the living room or section of the basement, chances are, you could use better lighting. Use natural light as much as you can, but pendant lights and accent lights can be a huge help as sunlight changes with the time of day and the seasons. And don’t feel like you need to limit your at-home learning to one area of the house. Maybe Art takes place in the kitchen, and History is in the dining room. Mix up your child’s day to keep things fresh; but make sure there is adequate light in all those spaces. Check out this lighting guide for inspiration.

Identify an area where the student can work in relative peace. Consider a wireless speaker to play calming music and help filter out extraneous noise and help them focus. Also ensure there is a place for supplies (pens, notebooks, books) so your child doesn’t have to get up to retrieve them. Another simple way to increase productivity is to remove clutter from the area your student will be working. The more organized, the better! When students are less distracted, they can better pay attention to classes and assignments.During these uncertain times, it’s important to keep your child’s education on track by setting them up with the space to succeed during distanced learning. It’s also a great time to invest in the overall functionality of our homes. Chances are that the electrical improvements you make to your home today will be enjoyed for years to come!