In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Iowa State students have transitioned to all online classes and meetings. From sketchy internet connections to developing self-motivation habits, several peer mentors responded when asked, "What are your thoughts on your new learning situation?"
Brett Schlicksup, ag bus junior:
I think that in challenging situations like this it is important to try to see it as a learning experience or opportunity. Whether we like it or not, these online classes/meetings are teaching us to be dynamic in the things that we do. It may be nice to attend class from the couch, but being removed from a classroom-like setting can make it hard to stay focused. No matter how you look at it, we have to remember that it is temporary and we will get through it.
Julia Campbell, ag bus sophomore:
With more time on our hands to respond, this season of life has brought about a greater sense of connectedness. Setting up video calls with family and friends who we are unable to be with during this time has been a highlight for me.
I look forward to video meetings with peers and staff to catch up, and I appreciate the interest we show in each other's well-being beyond the meeting agenda while we are unable to enjoy daily interactions face to face.
When this has passed, I believe we will be more appreciative of our surroundings and social interaction. After time away from our various commitments, we can also be intentional about what we allow back into our day-to-day routines.
Landon Foster, ag bus senior:
Although the situation is much less than ideal, there are a few positive aspects worth mentioning. Considering we do not have much of a choice but to be in this situation right now, I would say that interactive classes and meetings are the best way to maintain those positive interactions between professors and students and amongst students themselves.
Additionally, the decrease in responsibilities from extracurricular activities has been a nice change. I have finally been able to keep up with things and even help out on the family farm at home. I will say, I do enjoy the autonomy that online classes allow. It is nice to be able to take care of my assignments and even the lectures whenever I please as well as to be able to work entirely at my own pace.
Emma Aljets, ag bus junior:
All of my professors have been very accommodating to the changes taking place. They have been very clear on their expectations for the rest of the semester and have made great outlines of weekly assignment due dates and changes in the schedules.
None of my classes are meeting via zoom or WebEx. However, they have done a great job of creating video lectures that are easy to follow along with that pertain to the material we are covering that week. I have found that setting specific times for myself to focus on my work has been the most beneficial for me. I have set up a temporary desk in the living room of my house that has been an excellent place for me to gather my thoughts and complete my work. I have been consistently working from here from about 10 am-4 pm daily.
Andrew Thilges, ag bus senior:
I have had a great experience with online learning. Nearly every semester at ISU, I have had at least one online class. This semester I started off with two, and now I have four. One of the biggest reasons I like online classes is because it allows me to work at my own pace. I have one class completely finished for the semester already. Being able to watch lecture or study over your materials when you want to makes it easier for me to learn when I’m motivated to do so.
Emma Kehrli, ag bus senior:
Although switching to online classes is taking a bit to get used to, my professors have been very understanding and easy to work with. I definitely miss being in Ames, but I'm using this experience to spend time with my family and take a break. Something I enjoy about being home is being able to sit outside and enjoy a different scenery while doing my homework. None of my classes are meeting virtually through Zoom or WebX, so I can complete my coursework at my own pace. I have a place set up where I do my homework and I try to set aside specific times of the day for my classes.