Learning in a Virtual World

The Cadence Academic Network enables you to access Cadence tools remotely, and, in order to make your virtual learning a success, we want to provide some tips to help you learn at home like a pro! Once you’ve taken the time to implement these helpful tips, you can review the top Online Training courses taken by students and professors and see which ones you want to enroll in, enrollment details at the end.

First and foremost, make sure you know how to access all the technology needed to learn at home. We have given tips on how to access Cadence tools remotely, so contact your IT department to make sure you understand your university’s configuration. In addition, you’ll want to consider your work station, it’s important that you setup your work area to be conducive to productivity, whatever that means for you! Whether it’s natural lighting, minimalist desk, cave lighting, or even lavender candles, it’s important that you’ll be comfortable. Having a designated spot where you attend online lectures and take Cadence Online Training courses will set you to work mode rather than play mode.

Let me guess, you currently have your phone less than a foot away? That’s the great thing about this technology era, we’re always connected to one another, but it’s also a distraction that puts us into play mode instead of work mode. When you’re planning to work, it’ll help to eliminate those kinds of distractions. Keep your phone out of arm’s reach so it isn’t too easy to pick it up and start browsing social media and, although there’s so much to binge these days, it’s probably best to keep the TV off too. What can keep you in the groove is playing music, like video game soundtracks, because you can pick songs that match the work you’re doing, you’ll zone in on the task at hand.
Another great way to stay focused is to create a routine. If you’re used to getting ready, packing your lunch, and setting off for the day, continue to do that at home. Set hours for learning and stick to them by scheduling your day into digestible chunks of time. Create personal events for lectures, assignments, studying, and even breaks! Commit yourself to those segments and you’ll find you stay focused all day long.

When your well-deserved break comes up in the schedule, it’s imperative that you take advantage of the time. Step away from your learning environment for a walk, a 10-minute yoga session, to grab some water, or anything that’ll get you moving and give your eyes a break from screens. This will be a great way to recharge and prepare yourself for the next to-do on your agenda.

So, as you start to learn in a virtual world, remember these tips and you’re sure to be a success!

	1.	Workstation Setup (Including necessary technology access)
	2.	Limit Distractions
	3.	Create a routine
	4.	Take breaks to boost your energy

The most important tip we recommend is to take advantage of the online resources provided by the Cadence Academic Network, like enrolling in one of the most popular Online Training courses and earning Digital Badges to showcase on your resume, email signature and social channels like LinkedIn. The Digital Badge enables you to show your Cadence expertise to your LinkedIn network and the Academic Network LinkedIn groups gives you the chance to share knowledge with other Cadence experts through the main group or one of the 10 technology specific pages. Set yourself up for success by using these tips for learning in a virtual world!

How to enroll in Online Training:

All Online Training courses are available for self-enrollment on the Cadence Learning and Support system, located under the “Learning” tab.

To get a Learning and Support account:

• Cadence University Program and CMC Microsystems, please reach out to universityprogram@cadence.com
• Europractice, please reach out to MicroelectronicsCentre@stfc.ac.uk