Although online workshops were challenging, thanks to the instructors, workshops were held very smoothly and effectively. Using google documents and break out rooms, we did brainstorming, discussions, and homework. Also, I felt uneasy because I can’t go outside so much. But topics in workshops involved mental and physical health, and our instructor encouraged us, so I could keep motivation, even after I came back to Japan.

I am starting to get the hang of [online learning] and even sometimes enjoying the new class style. Surprisingly, I feel like I have a lot more to do now that I am home and some days I spend up to 7 hours studying, reading, writing and doing the homework our teacher gave us. It is just a matter of time before we all get used to this new routine.

I have a positive perspective to learning online even if it is difficult for me. I really appreciate the university's support. Of course, I want to learn in-class, because I feel easy to communicate with my classmates. However, I can learn how to deal with difficulties and the importance of face-to-face communication.

I was first skeptical about taking a language course online, but I believe that most of the time, we all had the chance to practice speaking and writing online as much as we did in the physical classroom. It was also easy to make one-on-one appointments with our teacher, and I was glad to have someone to talk to in quarantine.

I encourage students to pursue their studies online at the U of A because they will benefit in the same way as face-to-face learning. Instructors are extremely supportive and their communication skills are tremendously great.