At the Academy of Hope (AoH), we offer flexibility to our learners by providing all high school diploma programs online, with the principal’s approval. Other workforce programs (i.e, CompTIA IT pathways) operate on a hybrid schedule, conducting online and in-person classes.
Online courses let learners complete their credentials at their own pace at home. Though this can be an advantage, AoH recognizes that attending classes or studying from home can sometimes be difficult. Loud noises or crazy kids may make it hard to concentrate, and home tasks may distract you from your schoolwork. Distractions may lead to poor academic performance, causing stress or demotivation.
To prevent this, it’s essential to create a designated productive learning space for yourself. Follow these tips below to get started:
Choose a Space
First, find a spot in your home you can use as a workspace. This can be the living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Choose somewhere quiet with minimal distractions. Make sure you have good lighting to avoid eye strain and outlets nearby to charge your laptop.
Personalize and Organize
If you can find a permanent workspace, try to personalize it. According to the American Psychological Association, customizing your workspace increases productivity and boosts morale because you feel comfortable where you’re working. Try personalizing it by adding items that motivate you, like an inspirational quote or photos of things that make you happy.
Organizing your workspace is also important. Use drawers or folders to store academic materials. Frequently clean your space to prevent losing items or getting stressed from the mess, as disorganization negatively impacts your ability to focus.
Create Barriers
Inform those in your home about your space and the importance of maintaining a quiet, interruption-free zone. Communicate your class schedule and when you plan to be in your workspace, so they can prepare to be out of your way. Stick to this routine and share schedule changes in advance, if needed.
Minimize Distractions
Aside from finding a space without people distractions, limiting physical ones is also important. A cell phone is one of the easiest ways to get caught off track. Tempted by social media, texting, or surfing the internet, hearing the sound of a notification can disrupt your flow. Place your phone on silent, download app blockers to prevent screentime, or leave your phone in another room. The more you see or hear your phone, the more you will want to use it.
Restrict any other items you believe may be distracting. Include items that may help minimize distractions, like earplugs and fidget toys. Following these suggestions will prevent disturbances and build your attention span over time.
Spaces Away From Home
Depending on your situation, finding a quiet, designated space may not be an option. Here are a few spaces you can escape to, with most offering free wifi, outlets, and restrooms:
Academy of Hope (AoH): Our Ward 5 and Ward 8 locations have multipurpose rooms (MPR) with tables and chairs that learners can work at. If MPR is occupied by a class when you want to study, AoH staff can help you find a different quiet space to work.
District of Columbia Public Libraries: D.C. libraries are free and open to the public with a library card. Complete your work at a desk or computer, or reserve a study room if you work better in a private space. Since it’s a rule to keep quiet in the library, you don’t need to worry about noise or loud distractions keeping you from your work.
Coffee Shops/Cafes: Cafes are popular spaces for coursework or studying. Being in an environment where others are doing the same task may motivate you to stay focused. Treating yourself to a refreshment or snack from the cafe can be a reward for finishing your work.
Local Parks: While the park does not have wifi or outlets for your AoH laptop, it can be a nice place to complete paper classwork. The outdoors can provide a scenic backdrop for your studies and is a great way to enjoy the fresh air. In fact, studying outside can reduce stress and improve your problem-solving skills.
Conclusion
Whether you’re earning your high school diploma or training for workforce certifications, having an effective, reliable workspace to study and complete coursework is essential to being successful at school. Transforming an area at home into a consistent workspace is ideal, allowing yourself to organize, minimize distractions, and create a routine. External spaces, like the public library or AoH, offer quiet work areas if finding a space at home is difficult or you need a change of scenery.
All options boost productivity, keep you motivated, and help you stay on the path towards economic mobility.