Even though students and faculty may not be attending classes on campus, it is still important to keep spirits high and be productive. The resources below can help students and faculty members transition to an all-online learning format.

Missouri State University has published multiple articles that provide information on how students can succeed. For students who do not have adequate Internet connections at home, the Missouri State University Foundation has provided cellular hot spot devices. These can be mailed to students and used for the duration of the spring semester. Missouri State has also transferred many of their resources online, including the counseling center.

Many professors have made the decision to use online video conferencing tools to maintain a digital classroom environment, including Zoom and Blackboard Collaborate. For students who need assistance with using these technologies, Missouri State has published their own guide for using Zoom. Blackboard also has a troubleshooting page with tips for students who may have questions about the Collaborate feature. These guides can help ease the stress of the transition and make it easier to get involved online.

For students who need additional help with their classes, the Center for Learning and Writing, or Bear CLAW, has transitioned its services from in-person to online. Students who need tutoring assistance can find personalized help for many courses, including marketing, economics, accounting, finance, and statistics. The Bear CLAW’s Writing Center is also online, with writing consultants available to support students through email and virtual meetings. They provide an overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the text and give tips on how to improve writing skills.

It’s also important to keep morale high even though it may be more difficult than usual. Inc.com provided a list of 23 tips people can follow to improve their experience while working at home, including tips for self-care, communication and morale. It is also important to reach out to professors and classmates as they are likely experiencing similar challenges. Collaborating can help lighten the load and make the transition easier for everyone. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask for it.