Online classes have a world of difference in dynamics as compared to face-to-face classes. Oftentimes, students find themselves spending a huge chunk of their days on their desks. From attending their daily classes to studying, a good work area has become essential for remote learning. A desk or a workspace that works varies from student to student. Even then, the following are important factors to consider while setting up a workspace:
1. Create a Work Area for Your Needs
Aside from their programs, students have other factors to consider when improving their work area. Every student has different needs and study habits. Here are things that you can add to your desk:
- Storage. At one point in the semester, the desk will be where a student lives his life. They’ll have papers, stationery, and other equipment needed in class. To avoid a clutter-free environment, it’s useful to have storage spaces within arm’s length. Every time the teacher asks the students to get something, you won’t have to get out of your seat.
- Study lamp. Lighting is everything–both for looking good on camera and for staying awake while studying. Your eyes will thank you for having a source of light on your desk, especially when you’re studying all night.
- Book stand. A book stand makes your life so much easier when you’re studying for long hours. Instead of looking down the whole time to read, a book stand fixes your posture. It also makes shifting your attention from your book to your laptop a little easier.
- Second screen. A second screen makes multitasking so much easier. In class, you can put the video call on one screen while viewing your notes on the other. A second screen improves your productivity when you know how to use it properly.
These are only a few things that can elevate your workflow. Ultimately, what you need on your desk depends on you. Your study habits could evolve, and your desk will evolve with it, too.
2. Consider Your Program
A video call gadget and an internet connection are essential for online classes, but these needs vary depending on what you need. Some programs don’t require a strong processing power for computers, while other programs do.
In the Philippines, where online IT courses are offered, students need to be well-equipped with personal computers that can run coding software. On the other hand, students in arts and sciences can survive as long as their computers can run an internet browser, Word, and video conference apps.
3. Ergonomics
Even though you’re only sitting at your desk, there’s still a slight chance that you’ll feel uncomfortable. Because of slouching, people often feel light pains in the neck and the back. These situations are completely avoidable, and experts heavily suggest good posture.
Believe it or not, how you set up your desk helps get rid of slouching, craning, and back pains. Try these tips to have a more ergonomic home setup:
- Elevate your screen. People who use a laptop tend to look down the whole time because of the relatively low height of the desk. Because of this, people have to slouch to attain a more comfortable position. This results in back pain and discomfort in the neck. Consider buying a laptop stand or place the laptop on top of a stack of books, reams of bond paper, or a box.
- Have a separate keyboard. Typing for long periods of time can lead to carpal tunnel in the long run. Keyboards help prevent this by having ergonomic features such as rubber stands or an ergonomic layout. Moreover, a keyboard is a perfect pair for an elevated laptop.
- Invest in a standing desk. Switching up between sitting and standing throughout the day eases the tension in your body. Some tables can shift from being a regular desk to a standing desk. They are pricier than a regular desk, but they’re a good investment in injury prevention.
Investing in Your Workspace Pays Off
At times, a person’s workspace motivates them to be productive. When everything is going smoothly, there are fewer chances of feeling frustrated at a task.
Having a computer that can keep up with the demands of your degree helps you turn in school work easily. Little tweaks in the placement of your computer alleviate back pain and discomfort. Most of all, your workspace needs to make your workflow more convenient for you. Having everything you need on your desk will eliminate distractions while you’re in the zone.