6 Strategies to Succeed as an Online Student

By Anne Flenner, FLVS Flex School Counselor

 

 

Whether you recently made the decision to pursue a flexible and safe learning environment, or your school is temporarily closed and holding classes online, you’ll probably have a lot of questions about how you can succeed at Florida Virtual School (FLVS).

While this may be a new style of learning for you, you are not alone!

Many of your classmates will be learning how to succeed in the online environment right along with you, and we at FLVS will be here to help you every step of the way. With more than two decades of experience offering online education in Florida and throughout the world, you could say we’re kind of experts at this sort of thing!

Like you, we’re always learning and finding new ways to better support your online learning experience. To share some of what we’ve learned, we have compiled six tips to help you be the best online student you can be, stay on track, and unlock your future potential.

1. Read this guide.

You read that right! The fact that you clicked on this blog and read this far, means you are dedicated to your success and education. This dedication is the single most important quality you can have when starting with FLVS as a new student. Congratulations on completing the first step! You are well on your way to success!

2. Ask for help!

This tip may seem obvious, but change can be intimidating and cause you to feel uncertain. You are not alone, and virtual does not mean isolated. FLVS employs more than 2,300 teachers and support staff that all have one goal: keeping you, the student, at the center of everything we do. Our teachers know that you’re new, and many of your classmates are in the same boat as you, so no question is a stupid question. We mean it!

3. Find a fun place to study.

Find a place where you can get into the “school mindset,” one that is free of distractions and will provide you enough space to work on assignments. Have fun decorating your space and making it your own. Not sure what supplies you’ll need for your work station? Check out this Virtual School Supply List.

4. Plan your day.

Set a schedule for yourself and dedicate time to your specific courses. Make sure you set aside enough time to watch any lessons and complete assignments. Planning ahead is key to success. Bonus tip: you don’t need to work on the same course at the same time each day like you do in traditional school. Try mixing up your schedule through the week. You may find that certain courses are easier or more difficult to focus on at different times of the day. Create your plan the way YOU will learn best.

5. Don’t forget to take breaks and have fun!

When you think of school, the first thing you think of probably isn’t fun, but why can’t it be? Going virtual doesn’t mean you have to sit inside and stare at a screen all day. If anything, online education provides more time to get up and move between lessons. When you have the power and flexibility to plan your day, you won’t have to miss catching up with a friend, or your favorite mid-day bike ride. As long as you plan ahead and make sure you have adequate time for your coursework, you can take as many breaks throughout the day as you’d like. These are things you might not normally be able to do during your school day, and may even help you feel happier and healthier. As a result, you’ll find learning new things easier to accomplish. Take advantage of your newfound flexibility and freedom!

6. Get involved and stay connected!

Clubs and activities don’t have to end at the school gymnasium or cafeteria door! FLVS has more than 55 clubs that you can join as an online student. Continue the activities you already love or try something totally new. We offer Math Club, Science Club, Model UN, Honor Societies, Teen Driving Club, Glee Club, Fine Arts Club, and more. We even have a Yearbook Club! There is something for everyone! Check out our Top 3 Reasons to Join a Club This Year or read our Club FAQs to learn more.

With these tips in mind, the most important thing you can do is try. Don’t be scared to try new things – whatever you need to do to find the best way for YOU to learn at Florida Virtual School. We’ll be here to support you every step of the way.

Looking to homeschool with FLVS?

Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our FLVS Flex school counselors for support.