The return of face-to-face classes in the Philippines has been riddled with all sorts of challenges. Teachers and students alike are forced to adjust to the “new normal” of school life. Aside from the anxiety that entails going back to the classrooms, the hybrid learning setup and continued maintenance of COVID-19 preventive measures push the limits of all constituents.
Truly, F2F classes are not without major challenges, especially after two years’ worth of virtual schooling. Nevertheless, it is a necessary step towards the recovery and improvement of our education system. To help you curb the adjustment anxiety, we’ve rounded up some top tips on how you can survive F2F classes this school year.
Ace Your Face-to-Face Classes With These 5 Tips
If you need tips on how to prepare now that face-to-face classes are back in session, these might help you!
1. Don’t neglect safety protocols.
Students going back to school is one of the last steps in restoring what things used to be prior to the pandemic. However, one thing we should not forget is that COVID-19 is not yet over. The numbers still continue to increase, even if you probably no longer hear about it as much as before.
With that said, it is crucial that you and your schoolmates still religiously follow the security measures and safety protocols that your school is implementing. Always wear your masks in public, continue to maintain a physical distance from other people, and wash your hands regularly. Apply the same when visiting public grounds to make sure that you stay virus-free whenever you’re out and about.
You must also remain vigilant in monitoring any symptoms that may arise, and don’t forget to report any changes to your health status. Only by working together can everyone keep the community safe and healthy. Face-to-face classes can succeed if everyone does their part.
2. Avoid borrowing things from others as much as you can.
You’d know by now that touching things, especially those that aren’t yours, can easily render you vulnerable to the virus. Sure, it may be unavoidable to have to borrow or ask for supplies from your classmates every now and then, such as when you get a pop quiz that requires ¼ sheet of paper. Still, the best thing to do is try to stay prepared as much as you can.
Take inventory of the supplies you have on hand and make a separate list of items you’ll need to secure or purchase. Try to be as comprehensive when crafting your list—check what supplies you may need for each of your subjects. It may also help to invest in a locker or an in-campus storage unit to keep extra supplies nearby.
With this, you should also be wary of allowing peers to borrow your things. While it’s nice to provide for people, setting these boundaries would not only protect yourself but also them in the long run.
3. Practice work-life balance.
Whether your school implements hybrid learning or is already doing F2F full-time, work-life balance is key to avoiding fatigue. Going back to school and having to endure all the adjustment pains of this post-COVID school life can tax your time and energy.
Make sure to schedule breaks throughout the day and take time for yourself outside of school hours. This will help you avoid weariness and stay healthy both physically and mentally. It can be tough juggling online and face-to-face classes, so give yourself some grace as you adjust.
4. Do face-to-face classes feel strange? Take things slowly.
As we said, face-to-face classes in 2022 are bound to become an adjustment period for students and teachers alike. It’s normal if you feel as if you’re no longer used to socializing in person. We’ve been bound to two years of Zoom calls and emails, after all. Take things slowly, and be patient as you ease into face-to-face interactions. If you feel anxious about the sudden changes, allow yourself room to refocus.
Here are a few tips to help you adjust:
- Take some time to reconnect with your classmates outside class. Grab a coffee or go for a walk together.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Your friends and family are always there for you.
- Remember to have fun! Everyone has been through a lot this past year, and it’s essential to take some time to relax and enjoy life.
5. Look for the silver lining!
Finally, remember that face-to-face classes present a fantastic opportunity to learn and grow. Being in class allows for better interaction with the professor and classmates. Students can ask questions and get clarification more easily.
In addition, face-to-face classes will provide a more traditional learning environment. There is also a greater sense of accountability since students are less likely to skip class or fall behind on assignments. Make the most of it by being present in the moment and soaking up all the information your instructors have to offer!
Enjoy Face-to-Face Classes at CIIT
Going back to school in 2022 can be dreadful, what with the many things you need to adjust to. But it helps to know that you’re a part of a supportive community of learners and educators that strive to give you nothing but the best education you can get. If you’re looking for a school that would allow you to grow amid these very unpredictable times, CIIT is the one for you.
CIIT strives to make face-to-face classes as accessible to students as possible by staying sensitive to different student needs as we ease into the new normal. Find a course that suits your needs, and experience life as a CIITzen by enrolling here.
