4 ways to support your Jaguar in learning from home

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It’s a new era for IUPUI students and their families as campus makes the shift to online learning and many students learn from home for the first time.

Parent and Family Programs has compiled four ways families can support their Jaguar as they navigate virtual classes, new study spaces, and a new normal. 

1. Allow time to process feelings 

In the last couple of weeks, your student has experienced quite a bit of change in a short amount of time. They might be feeling anxious about finishing up their classes; nervous for what the future holds in terms of internships, summer classes, or courses; grief for having to abruptly leave their community; or uncertainty about transitioning to being at home. This can be a lot to process and experience.

It will be important to keep lines of communication open and recognize this is new for us all.

If your student needs additional support or advocacy, encourage them to explore free campus resources such as: Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), The Office of Student Advocacy and Support, or other Division of Student Affairs resources.

2. Stay healthy

Your student’s health and safety is our top priority – and it should be theirs, too. Encourage them to take proper precautions like washing their hands, cleaning their devices, and seeking care if they are ill.

During a time when it’s important and encouraged to stay home, your student may find their previous health and wellness routine is out of whack. It’s important to continue good exercise and nutrition habits, and if your student was waiting for a good time to try a new workout class, now is the time. 

Students and their families can participate in free, virtual fitness classes offered by Campus Recreation. Some will be offered through Zoom and others on Instagram Live @campusreciupui.

Students can also get started with virtual health and wellness coaching offered by Health and Wellness Promotion.

Photo by Liz Kaye, Indiana University

3. Get acquainted with online learning tools

For some Jaguars, this might be their first online course, and it could feel a little daunting compared to face-to-face classes. IU has created a Keep Learning resource for your Jaguar to use while adjusting to their new online environment.

Encourage your student to familiarize themselves with Canvas, Zoom, and other online tools, so they are ready for success. You can also review tips together for how to stay engaged during online learning. 

Having issues? The UITS Support Center is here to help. Need Wi-Fi? IU has provided hot spots on all campuses that are available to any Jagaur who needs it.

4. Remember important upcoming events and dates 

Although your student will receive reminders about upcoming deadlines and dates, it is just as important for our parents and families to have a sense of what is coming up – like final exams, on-campus housing renewal deadlines, and more.

Familiarize yourself with official IUPUI calendar to stay informed.

To stay up to date on Indiana University’s response to COVID-19, please visit coronavirus.iu.edu. It includes campus-based resources, an FAQ, the most-recent updates, and more. 

Stay connected with Parent and Family Programs by signing up for our e-newsletter, joining us on social media, or emailing us at jagfam@iupui.edu.