With schools around the world closing their doors during the COVID-19 crisis, students from kindergarten to graduate school have had to adapt to online learning technology. This shift brings both opportunities and challenges, but having the right technology in place can help students stay on track.
Choosing the Right Online Learning Tools
Many students use Microsoft Office at school, and they may need access to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint at home. Some schools provide free software licenses, so check with your institution first. If you need to purchase access, a Microsoft 365 subscription is now more affordable, costing about the same as two café coffees per month.
Alternatively, your student may use Google’s suite of tools for schoolwork. Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides are free and widely accepted by teachers. These tools also allow real-time collaboration, making them perfect for group projects.
Teleconferencing for Remote Learning
Video conferencing is an essential part of online learning technology. Students may need to download Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet to communicate with teachers and classmates. However, cybercriminals have taken advantage of increased demand by setting up fake websites. Always download software from legitimate sources like www.zoom.us or www.skype.com.
To improve the video conferencing experience, consider these best practices:
Use headphones to limit background noise.
Join calls from a quiet, low-traffic area with a simple background.
Ask others at home to avoid streaming or large downloads during lessons.
For a stable connection, connect to the router with a network cable or stay close to the wireless router.
Cybersecurity for Online Learning
As students rely on online learning technology, cybersecurity becomes a major concern. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities, so students must follow these precautions:
Keep usernames and passwords private – Never share login details.
Avoid using outdated operating systems – If your home computer still runs Windows 7, it is no longer receiving security updates, making it vulnerable to attacks. Upgrading to a newer OS improves security.
Secure home Wi-Fi – Many people don’t change the default username and password on their routers, which is a major security risk. To protect your network:
• Hide your Wi-Fi network from public view.
• Enable encryption to protect data transmissions.
• Regularly update your router’s software to fix security issues.
Creating a Productive Learning Environment
School computers typically block distracting websites and unauthorized downloads, but home devices may not have the same protections. To create a focused learning space, parents can:
Set up a student-specific user profile on shared devices.
Use parental controls to restrict access to certain websites.
Limit downloads to reduce the risk of malware.
These steps help students stay focused on learning while protecting them from online threats.
Get Expert Help for Online Learning Technology
Adjusting to online learning technology can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Our tech experts can help you set up and secure your devices for remote learning.Book a free consultation today: Click here.