How can I get the most out of my online lessons?

girl holding violin while listening to teacher during an online lesson

In this new environment, online lessons are becoming the reality.  Online lessons are a great way to keep yourself or your child in the routine of learning and stay connected with your teacher. But they definitely come with their own unique challenges.  With just a little preparation however, the online learning experience is a breeze.  Here are a few tips to help you get the most from your online lessons. 

  1. Let your teacher pick the program.  Every teacher will have a program they are comfortable using, whether that is Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts etc. Allowing them to decide will ensure they provide you with the best possible remote lesson experience.  They will have advice to help you get the most out of your settings and experience with any technical obstacles so you can avoid frustrating “can you hear me now” moments and get down to the business of learning. 
  2. Don’t expect it to be exactly like an inperson lesson.  Teaching a lesson through a computer screen presents different challengesFor example, your teacher might have moved your arm into the correct position during your in person lesson. Now they will have to mime the correct posture or describe what they want you to do with words.  Get yourself in a headspace where you are prepared to be a flexible learner. Sometimes hearing the same advice in a different way can be a real eye opener.  Who knows, maybe that one hard technique will finally click!     
  3. Choose your in-home lesson location wisely.  A new set of distractions will crop up if you aren’t choosing the right space for your remote lessons.  Try your best to minimize distractions in the room and be mindful of background noise from pets, lawnmowers, the TV etc.  No teacher can compete with Disney!  If possible, having a dedicated lesson/practice space is ideal. 

Follow those three pieces of advice and you will be in the best position to get the most out of your online lessons.  Remember, setting up remote lessons is a learning process for everyone involved, so be patient and open to the experience.  Keep communicating what is or isn’t working for you or your child and every online lesson will be better than the last! 

Interested in scheduling online private lessons? Get more info here.