Online Application Guide
There is no doubt that our lives are vastly interrupted. The current condition on the lips of everyone these days is the uncertainty arising from the spread of the COVID-19. This uncertainty is strongly related to anxiety, and higher levels of uncertainty contribute to higher levels of anxiety.
The traumatic conditions of quarantine, isolation, unpredictability, physical and emotional constraints are in some way affecting all of us at some level.
The questions, “how will students express their feelings of abandonment, loss, grief, and confusion?” “how do lecturers identify these feelings?” Often, our behaviors tell our stories, signaling the pain we are carrying and sometimes can barely speak of or even understand.
Therefore, as we work with our students, lecturers, parents and guardians during this pandemic, let us all try to figure out how to have effective teaching and learning in a way that is safe, comprehensive, and doable with the limited access to technology and the internet we are presently facing.
One of the emotions that students will likely exhibit during this time is anxiety. This is likely to arise for varying reasons, with a noticeable factor being the transition from a face-to-face teaching and learning experience to an online classroom platform. (Please note however, that this does not mean that students will develop an anxiety disorder). In fact, feeling some level of anxiety is quite normal and often arises when we face new situations.
Anxiety, and the fears that often accompany the emotion of anxiousness, allows us to survive, and at times, thrive. But, according to the Yerkes-Dodson law, there is a point where too much or too little anxiety is harmful. So, what can you do to not let this anxiousness with online learning go from helpful to harmful?
All students can benefit from the support that teachers can provide in the class. However, some students, more than others, may need more advanced support.
We are well aware that students experience stress; it’s impossible not to, with everything going on around them. So the question is, “how to get over stress from school?”
To handle the stress you can:
1. Basic self-care will keep your immune system strong and your emotional reserves full.
2. Try getting enough sleep and exercising regularly.
3. Ensure that you are eating well.
4. Try to find activities that engage different parts of your body. Do something physical like dancing or even occupy your mind with puzzles.
5. Try to engage your senses with hot baths or fragrant candles.
6. Look for tasks you can postpone or eliminate from your to-do list.
You might feel unmotivated now. Recognize that the current circumstances are hard for everyone. Don’t judge yourself; just do the best you can. Try to establish a routine; wake up, go to bed and do your work at the same time every day. Frequent breaks can help you re-engage in your work. You can try to create a separate work space, although you should reserve your sleeping area for sleeping.
Your classmates are probably far away and having to stay home can be lonely. To fight isolation, come together with your classmates via technology. Even something as simple as turning on your webcam during virtual classes can help you and others feel more connected.
Your classmates and family members are anxious, too. You don’t have to try to fix their problems. It is enough to let them know they are not alone.
Try to come to terms with the fact that important events may not happen this year.
Grieve those losses, then reframe how you think about these life events. Think about how you can celebrate your achievements. Consider recreating important events once it is safe.
Of course, it is good to stay informed, especially about what is happening in your community. However, too much news, especially social media can add to your anxiety. To avoid being overwhelmed, set limits on your media consumption and smartphone use. Avoid misinformation by relying on reputable sources like the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.
Your classmates, friends or family members may be disobeying the rules about physical distancing or doing other things that add to your stress. While modeling good behavior and staying safe yourself, recognize that you cannot control what others do. You can only control your own thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Another thing you cannot control? The uncertainty about what comes next.
During this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 pandemic, many decisions that were previously straightforward have become complex and challenging. However, always remember that the Students' Support Services department is here to help you navigate through the academic year.