Working remotely
Navigating flexible study and work? Find helpful advice on creating a productive remote setup that complements your university life.
This guide offers practical advice for University of Waikato students to create a productive and balanced experience, whether you're on campus, at home, or somewhere in between.
Embrace flexible learning
Remote working offers a range of advantages for students:
- Tailored to your schedule
Balance your studies with part-time work, family responsibilities, extracurricular activities, or personal interests more easily. - Increased accessibility
Flexible options can make it easier to access your education, regardless of your location or any individual needs you might have. - Develop future-ready skills
You'll build valuable skills highly sought after by employers, such as self-management, digital literacy, and independent learning.
Set up a productive space
Creating a good workspace can make a big difference to your focus and well-being.
- Find your study zone
Whether it's a dedicated desk at home, a quiet corner in the library, or a comfortable spot in a café, find a space where you can concentrate. - Essential tech setup
Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and the necessary equipment for your studies. This might include:- A laptop or computer
- A comfortable keyboard and mouse
- Headphones (especially for online lectures or study groups)
- Good lighting
- Workstation well-being
Set up your workspace to be comfortable and ergonomic to prevent aches and strains. Pay attention to:- Good posture
- Proper monitor height
- Taking regular breaks to stretch and move
Create a healthy workstation
- Forearms should be approximately horizontal and your eyes should be the same height as the top of the screen.
- Arrange the desk and screen to avoid glare, or bright reflections. This is often easiest if the screen is not directly facing windows or bright lights. Adjust curtains or blinds to prevent intrusive light.
- When sitting, make sure there is space under the desk to move your legs.
- If you do not have a chair with back support, you can use a rolled up towel or small cushion to provide support.
- Avoid excess pressure from the edge of seats on the backs of legs and knees. A footrest may be helpful, if you do not have a footrest you may wish to improvise by using another solid surface.
- Good keyboard technique is important – you can do this by keeping a soft touch on the keys and not overstretching the fingers. Try to keep your wrists straight when typing.
- Position the mouse within easy reach, so it can be used with a straight wrist.
- Sit upright and close to the desk to reduce working with the mouse arm stretched.
- Move the keyboard out of the way if it is not being used.
- Support your forearms on the desk, and don’t grip the mouse too tightly.
- Your screen should be at arm’s length from your face and you should be able to read information without lowering or elevating your head.
- Make sure individual characters on the screen are sharp, in focus, and don’t flicker or move. If they do, your screen may need adjustment.
- Adjust the brightness and contrast controls on the screen to suit lighting conditions in the room.
- Choose text that is large enough to read easily on screen when sitting in a normal comfortable working position.
Breaking up long spells of activity at the workstation helps prevent fatigue, eyestrain, upper limb problems, and backache. Organised or scheduled rest breaks are helpful in preventing strains. The following may help:
- Change position at least twice every hour – more often if you are working on a laptop or have a small computer screen.
- Look into the distance from time to time, and blink often.
- Change activity before you get tired, rather than waiting for fatigue to set in.
- Short, frequent breaks are more beneficial than longer, infrequent ones.
- Whenever possible, use a firm surface such as a desk, as well as a full-sized keyboard, and mouse.
- The height and position of the screen should be angled so you are sitting comfortably and reflection is minimised. Raiser blocks are commonly used to help with screen height but books or other solid objects can also be used.
- More changes in activity and breaks may be needed if you cannot minimise prolonged use and awkward postures while using a laptop.
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help set up your workstation from Alan Hedge, a professor whose research and teaching activities focus on issues of design and workplace ergonomics. In addition to this, here is a 3-minute video from ergonomics expert Jon Cinkay.
Put suitable practices in place to ensure that you maintain confidentiality and privacy in your work, where applicable.
Mastering a flexible schedule
Effective time management is key to success in a flexible learning environment.
- Create a study routine
Plan your study time each week, just like you would with scheduled classes. Block out time for lectures (whether live online or recorded), tutorials, independent study, and even breaks. - Prioritise tasks
Use a planner or a to-do list (digital or paper) to keep track of assignments, readings, and other tasks. Focus on the most important or urgent items first. - Set boundaries
Clearly define when you are "on" for study and when you are "off." Communicate these boundaries to family and flatmates to minimise interruptions. - Build in breaks
Short, regular breaks can boost your focus and productivity. Step away from your work, stretch, or do something you enjoy.
Staying connected in a hybrid world
Even with flexible options, staying connected to the university community is important.
- Communicate effectively
- with your tutors and lecturers
Know the best ways to contact them with questions (e.g., email, online forums on Moodle). Follow email etiquette guidelines. - with your study groups
Utilise online tools like Microsoft Teams or Zoom for virtual study sessions and collaboration on projects. Shared documents like Google Docs or Microsoft 365 can also be very helpful.
- with your tutors and lecturers
- Join student groups and clubs
Participate in clubs, societies, or online communities related to your interests or programme of study to meet new people and build connections. - Attend online and on-campus events
Keep an eye on the university's news and events pages for both virtual and in-person activities.
Balancing study and life's commitments
Many students balance their studies with other important parts of their lives.
- Acknowledge commitments
Recognise and plan for the time and energy required for work, family, and personal responsibilities. - Seek support when needed
Don't hesitate to reach out for help. If you're struggling to balance your commitments, the University offers various support services.
Support for your wellbeing
Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing is crucial for academic success.
- Explore University support services
The University provides a range of health and well-being services for students, including:- Student Health Services
For medical needs and general health advice. - Counselling Services
For support with mental health and personal challenges. - Wellbeing Hub
For resources and activities promoting overall well-being.
- Student Health Services
- Practice self-care
Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, spending time in nature, or connecting with loved ones.