Overcoming Online Learning Challenges

The COVID-19 pandemic is no doubt a game changer in education, impacting unprecedented number of learners worldwide.

Left with very few options to deliver lessons, academic institutions turned to online teaching, an unfamiliar mode of study to many learners.

Despite the struggles adapting to online learning, Damia Ibrahim a Yayasan Peneraju scholar at Sunway College@ Velocity, went on to score a 100% in the Managing Costs and Finance paper, and is a CAT World Prize Winner. Damia shared with us her experiences of online learning and tips for keeping herself productive and motivated during her course of study.

1. How would you describe your experiences with online learning and how did you cope?

• Personally, I think that online learning is quite challenging. Trying to stay focused in front of a laptop with constant distractions can be very tough and tiring.
• To cope with online learning, I constantly remind myself of my goals. I remind myself that I must be flexible and learn to adapt to the new environment. I cannot just simply let anything get in the way of achieving my goals of being a successful Certified Chartered Accountant.

2. Have you encountered any difficulties in your course so far? How did you overcome it?

• Although the journey so far has been pleasant, there have been a few bumps on the road. Especially with the ongoing pandemic.
• Online classes are very tiring when compared to face to face classes even though all I must do is stay still and listen to the lectures. To convince myself to stay motivated, I reward myself with sufficient breaks. This also prevents me from burning out and end up losing focus in class.

3. Despite the challenges adapting to online learning, you scored 100% in the Managing Cost and Finance paper and went on to be CAT World Prize winner. What’s the biggest factor that has helped you be a World Prize winner?

• Honestly, I think that the biggest factor that has helped me in becoming a world prize winner would be the constant support from Sunway TES. Especially from my lecturers. It amazes me how patient they can be in answering my queries. Even with the ongoing pandemic, they have been extremely helpful. Words cannot describe how thankful I am to them.

4. What are your success habits?

• I go by the rule ‘study smart not hard’.
• Personally, I think that everyone is unique in their own ways. Hence it is best to get to know yourself. Know your study style whether remotely, in groups, in the morning, late at night etc.
• By knowing your study style, you will be able to study in the manner most suitable for yourself to maximise your understanding and efficiency.

5. What is the best advice you can give to other students?

• I would like to emphasise on taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. Take a break when you need it. Studying when you are extremely tired and burned out will not end up beneficial to you. Study shows that working too long on a particular task will end up decreasing performance. Take some time to recharge. Subsequently, you will feel more refreshed and motivated to study.