París, France – October 31, 2024 As universities and schools worldwide transition back to in-person learning, students are finding themselves needing to adjust habits and routines developed during the era of online education. For many, the shift back to classrooms has introduced a new set of challenges, requiring changes in daily routines, study habits, and social interactions. At the forefront of exploring these changes is Paris Metropolitan University, with Prof. Dr. Gabriel Martín Rodríguez leading research on how students are adapting and what strategies they might use to succeed in this new phase.
The reliance on online learning created habits unique to a virtual environment, with students often benefiting from flexible schedules, home-based study spaces, and digital interaction. However, the return to campus means reintegrating traditional structures like fixed schedules, on-campus participation, and face-to-face engagement with peers and instructors. Understanding how students can best manage these shifts is key to helping them thrive academically and personally in this new era.
Impact of Online Learning on Student Behavior
During the shift to online learning, students developed behaviors and routines suited to a home-based study model. Schedules were more flexible, often allowing students to balance coursework with other responsibilities in ways that wouldn’t have been possible on campus. This flexibility, however, also led to unique challenges, such as managing screen fatigue, self-discipline, and maintaining motivation without in-person accountability.
Prof. Dr. Gabriel Martín Rodríguez’s work at Paris Metropolitan University has highlighted several behavioral patterns that emerged during the online learning phase. Many students developed tendencies to study during unconventional hours, prioritize comfort over structure, and engage in multitasking. These habits, while beneficial in a virtual setting, can sometimes clash with the structured demands of an in-person academic schedule. Therefore, a major focus of the current transition is helping students identify which online habits are adaptable for campus life and which require adjustment.
The Role of Time Management and Structure
One of the key challenges students face in shifting back to in-person learning is managing a fixed daily schedule. Online learning often allowed students to manage their time independently, completing tasks at their own pace. The return to structured class schedules requires a readjustment to specific time frames for each activity, such as commuting to campus, attending scheduled lectures, and participating in on-campus activities.
At Paris Metropolitan University, time management workshops have been introduced to help students make this transition smoother. These sessions focus on helping students develop a balanced daily routine that accommodates both academic and personal responsibilities. Prof. Dr. Rodríguez and his team emphasize the importance of creating a weekly schedule that reflects class times, study sessions, and extracurricular activities, allowing students to regain a sense of rhythm and balance.
Research suggests that students who practice effective time management are more likely to succeed academically and experience less stress. By establishing routines early in the transition, students can manage their coursework more effectively, build resilience, and reduce the likelihood of academic burnout.
Creating Effective Study Spaces on Campus
One of the most notable differences between online and in-person learning environments is the location where students study and complete assignments. During the online phase, many students created personal study spaces at home that accommodated their individual needs. These spaces often allowed for flexibility and comfort, which may not be as readily available on a busy university campus.
Returning to in-person learning requires students to adapt to studying in libraries, shared spaces, or designated study areas on campus. Prof. Dr. Rodríguez and his team at Paris Metropolitan University encourage students to experiment with various on-campus study environments to find what works best for them. Some students may prefer the quiet focus of a library, while others may thrive in more collaborative settings where they can interact with peers.
Understanding and adapting to different study spaces can enhance concentration and productivity, ensuring that students are making the most of their time on campus. Paris Metropolitan University has invested in improving study facilities and creating zones tailored to different study needs, allowing students to find spaces where they feel comfortable and focused.
Rebuilding Social Connections and Communication Skills
Online learning also influenced how students communicate and interact socially, often resulting in less direct contact with peers and professors. With classes conducted through screens and social interactions limited to virtual platforms, many students found it challenging to maintain meaningful relationships or develop new ones.
With the return to campus, rebuilding these connections has become an essential part of the transition. Prof. Dr. Rodríguez notes that social engagement plays a significant role in student well-being and academic success. Paris Metropolitan University has implemented several initiatives to help students rebuild their social networks, including events, workshops, and discussion groups where students can interact in person. These gatherings provide opportunities to form bonds and rebuild communication skills that may have diminished during online learning.
Learning to interact and communicate effectively in person is a key skill that will benefit students not only academically but also in future professional environments. The emphasis on social interaction helps students feel more connected to their university community, which in turn can lead to a more positive and motivated approach to their studies.
About Paris Metropolitan University
Paris Metropolitan University is a leading online higher education institution located in the heart of Paris, France. Known for its academic excellence, research achievements, and commitment to social impact, Paris Metropolitan University offers a wide range of programs across a variety of disciplines. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and comprehensive student support ensures that graduates are well prepared to achieve their career goals.
Authorized by the Paris Academy:
Under the jurisdiction of the French Ministry of National Education
According to the Education Code, articles L 444-1 to 444-11 and R 444-1 to 444-28
Paris Metropolitan University
250 to Saint-Germain Boulevard
75007 Paris, France
info@parismetropolitanuniversity.com
www.parismetropolitanuniversity.com
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