10 Online Classroom Commandments

10 Online Classroom Commandments
Candice Allen

What was the most memorable moment during your online classes last semester? Chances are, you probably don’t have one because you would have fallen asleep countless times as your teacher rambled on about a topic you had no chance of grasping! The COVID-19 pandemic, as beautifully catastrophic as ever, has twisted our lives into the form of an irregular shape and has forced us to make drastic adjustments. One such change is the fact that our classes are now online and for some, that has been a blessing but has left other students at a disadvantage. Regardless of whatever category you fall under, it is important that we review some realistic strategies that may increase your chances of optimal productivity during your online classes.

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS

1. Thou shalt not lay in bed while your classes are ongoing. You and I both know that’s a recipe for disaster! The most favorable workstation is by a desk with your computer and stationery. This setting encourages efficiency.

2. Thou shalt rest your eyes, for, according to the American Optometric Association, at least 15 minutes after every lecture. Deteriorating eyesight doesn’t seem particularly desirable and the headaches that are caused by strained eyes aren’t very pleasing either!

3. Thou shalt do a mock presentation before the actual one. With classes being online, the chances of a mishap have increased. It is worth knowing that the Humanities tutorial rooms are usually open 24/7. You can easily upload the presentation and do a run-through in order to iron out any kinks.

4. Thou MUST inform the people who surround you (friends, family members etc) when classes are about to begin and request that they speak in hushed tones when possible. They’ll be more likely to respect your wishes with the knowledge that you’re trying to focus. Side note: I’m assuming your siblings aren’t spawns of Satan.

5. Thou shalt mute your social media notifications or keep the phone at a far distance while you engage in classes. It decreases your chances of getting sidetracked.

6. Thou shalt participate. It’s easy to feel anxious when attempting to make an input or ask a question in class, but imagine the feeling of gratification you’ll have after your teacher tells you that you’ve asked an important question! Commenting in discussions could also allow your teacher to eliminate any misunderstandings you may have.

7. Thou shalt not get flustered when your Wi-Fi slows down and that one class just won’t load! You can always ask a classmate to inform you of what you missed or watch the recordings.

8. Thou shalt not enter your morning classes in your pajamas. Your deportment affects your mindset and your willingness to put extra effort into focusing and participating in classes. Laziness is a sin!
9. Ye shalt not be one of those lovely people who think it's cute or funny to write on the teacher’s virtual whiteboard without her permission. Also, don’t erase what she’s already written on purpose because you’ll only be wasting valuable time. I’ve been there, those were dark times.

10. Ye shalt not leave your mic unnecessarily unmuted. No one wants to hear grandma Pam arguing with cousin Clara in the kitchen.


I genuinely hope that you all will adhere to my commandments this semester because I WILL be watching you.
Also, if you have any commandments that you’d like to add, please slide into our DM’s at humedu_pcc!