As we venture into new territory of remote course delivery for spring term at Western Oregon University, students should remember one thing will never change.

WOU is here for you.

Now more than ever, communicating with your professors, adviser and staff is important. Whether you need to call, email or video chat, they are here to answer your questions or guide you in your learning.

Here a few ideas for a successful spring term:

Create a study space

Find a quiet space in your home where you can attend to your remote classes and do your homework. Designate your study hours and share them with others in your home. Make sure you have the necessary supplies for spring term such as notebooks, pens, pencils and textbooks. You can order and pick up supplies at the bookstore.

Get Access to Technology and Internet

If you need assistance with high-speed internet connections or a computer, WOU is here to help. Visit Keep Learning to see your options. Consider using headphones to listen to lectures or discussions, especially if you are studying in a shared space.

Make a spring term plan

Start spring term by looking at the syllabus for each class and marking your calendar to note the due date for tests, papers and assignments. Create a daily schedule so you designate time to your schoolwork. When you are working on assignments, set a timer and focus just on that class. The challenge of taking remote courses is you can be distracted by what’s happening in your house or want to skip from one class to the next. Keep your focus on one class at a time by learning The Magic of Monotasking.

Find study partners

Remote courses are a great way to meet new friends while you work together to discuss lessons and complete assignments. Introduce yourself to others in your remote classes, and plan to keep each other motivated and on-track for spring term. Invite your classmates to a virtual study hour once or twice a week. Your classmates will appreciate your efforts to engage with them.

Use Support Services

While our buildings are closed to the public due to the Governor’s Executive Orders regarding COVID-19, WOU’s support services for students remain strong. If you require remote services from the following, visit their website for details.

• Student Success and Advising Office
• The Registrar’s office
• Financial Aid is offering remote appointments. Those can be scheduled through the Wolf Connection System or you can call their office at 503-838-8475.

• The Writing Center
• The Student Health and Counseling Center. Note: The SHCC is offering some onsite visits. Check its website for details.

• Hamersly Library has expanded its remote services to include reference services, chat, email, telephone and appointments for pick-up and drop-off of library items. The spring term remote library hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Stay Healthy
Our brain works best when we take care of our body. Make sure to plan for regular breaks for exercise and fresh air. Challenge your friends and family to a walking contest or take a remote fitness class through the Peter Courtney Health and Wellness Center. Eat well, get plenty of sleep and do something healthy to relieve the stress.