Due to the threat of COVID-19, every state struggles with keeping the educational system afloat, especially since the children’s future is at risk. In such unprecedented circumstances, what will the future be like for Australia’s 240,000 Year 12 students?

As the academe tries to come up with plausible solutions, the students fight battles of their own. Many students express the difficulty of coming up with a space conducive to learning. Others report that studying from home is difficult because unlike classrooms, they have to deal with the reality of their lives. The pandemic has brought a blanket of fear and anxiety and apart from dealing with deadlines, many students are dealing with the repercussions of the virus. Technologies may not always be readily available, either.

Students from Year 12 continue to adapt and prepare for what could be months of learning from home—you may be one of them. The going is tough, and the stakes are high, but learning from home isn’t impossible. Here’s a simple guide to learning through COVID-19:

1 – Prioritise your health

Remember that we’re dealing with a crisis—to work well and efficiently, educational institutions highly encourage students to first assess their well-being. Although your education is important, remember that your health matters the most. It is integral that you realise that you are safe, resilient, and with the help of others—you are not alone in such unpredictable and frightening times. Do not hesitate to speak to adults you trust, especially about your current thoughts and feelings. Allow them to dispel your fears and anxieties.

2 – Organise your space

You will be more invested in learning when you have a dedicated school space. This doesn’t have to be grand—it can simply be the corner of your room or a space at the dining table. The key is to look for a place that is free from noise and any distractions. If you have siblings, consider talking to them and designate areas for each of you. The areas should be comfortable, complete with a desk and chair.

3 – If you’re experiencing technical problems, continue to learn on your own

You may find yourself struggling with internet access to lessons. If you find yourself offline, simply opt to read. It doesn’t have to be related to your lessons—simply read whatever you wish! The key is to keep learning, so feel free to wear your pyjamas and camp out in the living room. Set a goal of reading a certain number of chapters a day. This will help you set a learning rhythm and once you do, slowly add your lessons to the reading pile.

4 – Don’t forget to socialise with your friends

Your time at school is more than just about learning—it’s a place of holistic growth, and that includes having fun, connecting with friends, and sharing ideas. Through the use of technology, keep in touch with your classmates. Consider video calls, virtual field trips, and even interactive educational games. If the lessons are becoming too hard, ask your teacher to organise these activities for you and your classmates—they will be more than happy to help.

The Takeaway

Unfortunately, the end of the pandemic remains to be seen. Countries continue to be under lockdowns. Our lives have been disrupted, and as a student, your learning may need to resume in the safest way possible—in your own homes. It’s difficult to learn unconventionally, but powering through will be worth it. Never hesitate to reach out for help.

Such help also calls for extra helping hands and we are ready to extend ours! We offer high school tutoring in Penrith for various subjects. We help our students develop confidence outside of their schools. To foster learning despite the pandemic, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for HSC tutoring and small class sessions, we are still delivering quality tutoring with live online sessions!