It’s quite ironic that the same technology that allows online college students to get their work done is also what brings them distractions. You indeed need the internet to access your school emails, enter your online classroom, and listen to your professor’s lectures. But how many times were you sidetracked by that familiar alert sound on Facebook or when your favorite YouTube channel notifies you of a new video?
If you want to keep your focus and become productive in your studies, here are the ways to keep distractions at bay:
Use third-party blockers
If you have trouble resisting the lure of distracting websites while studying, it’s time to block them proactively. Fortunately, there are tons of apps and browser extensions that provide this service, such as Block Site and StayFocused. You can blocklist the site and set-up a time frame. If you attempt to access the site in the middle of your schoolwork, the homepage will not load up and remind you that you should be doing something else.
Put your devices on silent mode
Hey, your sister just sent you a cute cat meme, and you can’t help but respond with a cuter one. Before you know it, you’ve spent the next thirty minutes mindlessly scrolling through cat memes and videos, when you should be doing that essay due the next day.
If you can’t help but check out your phone or social media site each time you hear a notification bell, then it’s best just to turn them off while you’re studying. It’s also wise to put your communication apps like Skype and Viber, as well as email, into silent mode as well, if you’re not using them for schoolwork.
Develop and stick to a study routine
Last but not least, develop and stick to a study routine. Schedule your day in such a way that you’re always putting prime priority for learning. During this time, you are to stay away from your gadgets, activate your website blockers, and put your apps into silent mode. This will ensure that you’ll use your study time productively.
The internet has now become a learning medium, but it’s also a bearer of distractions. Keep your eyes on the prize and stay focused. You’ll feel less guilty if you binge on your favorite Netflix show once you’ve done your schoolwork for the day.