How to avoid the

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You go out on a limb to start the conversation. You have it all covered, name, what you are studying, a fun fact about yourself.

And then the inevitable awkward silence.

Keep reading to find out how you can improve your online study success by breaking the ice, skipping the small talk and making friends online.

Did you know something as simple as breaking the ice and starting a conversation can improve your chance of study success? Research has shown that students who feel connected are more likely to be successful learners, effective colleagues and all-round happy people. So what are you waiting for? Improve your online study success by breaking the ice, skipping the small talk and making friends online.

Tip 1 Ask their opinionWhat did you think of the video in this week’s lecture?

What did everyone think of last week’s tute questions? Question 3 really stumped me.

Who doesn’t like to talk about what they think? By asking someone’s opinion, not only are you breaking the ice but you could meet someone who shares your passion or spark up a healthy debate with someone who doesn’t.

Tip 2 Ask a question that is easy to answerI am going to make a start on the assignment this weekend, has anyone else started already?

Is anyone else living in or near Brisbane? I would love to meet up for a coffee and chat about the assignment!

Has anyone watched this week’s recordings yet?

A simple question could not only break the ice, but be the start of a great friendship.

“Within my first semester, I made a friend (who to this day I have never met) and we have kept in touch. I have also used the discussion boards to find other people in my area that are also distance students, and have organised coffee catchups!” – Lauryn, USQ Online Student

You can learn more about Lauryn in HeyU Issue 27

Tip 3 Share your challenges I know we are only in Week 3 but I am really struggling, is anyone else?

What did everyone think of last week’s tute questions? Question 3 really stumped me.

I know we are only in Week 3 but I am really struggling, is anyone else?

I have just started studying for our exam and there is so much to learn! Does anyone have any study tips?

I have started Assignment 1 and I’m not sure if I am on the right track, has anyone else started?

It may not feel like it, but you are probably not the only one struggling.University can be hard at times, but having a support network can make all the difference. You could even set up a study group or share tips on how to make study more manageable.

Tip 4 Ask for helpI know we are only in Week 3 but I am really struggling, is anyone else?

What did everyone think of last week’s tute questions? Question 3 really stumped me.

I am looking for Week 5’s slides, can anyone point me in the right direction?

Ahhh our exam is in 2 weeks, does anyone want to set up a study group to help each other prepare?

Just listened to this week’s lecture and didn’t really understand slide 5. Is anyone able to help?

Asking for help is great way to break the ice and spark a conversation. For every question asked it is likely there are many more people too afraid to ask. By asking the question you are helping them in the process. Remember, no question is a silly question.

Tip 5 Share something you have found.Have you guys seen the latest edition of HeyU? There is a great app review on page 6!

I found this video online that talks about week 2’s topic and thought you might find it helpful.”

Ever found something so cool you couldn’t wait to share it with someone? Why not use it to spark a conversation online. You never know who shares the same interests as you.

The next time you are sitting and waiting for someone to make the first move, remember:1. Ask their opinion. 2. Ask a question that is easy to answer.3. Share your challenges.4. Ask for help.5. Share something you have found.

social.usq.edu.auCRICOS: QLD00244B NSW02225M TEQSA: PRV12081 00.0.A 00.2015

social.usq.edu.au