3 Essential Tools for Online Students

Featured article by Calvin Paige, Independent Technology Author

In a previous blog, we’ve talked about 3 essential tools for bloggers, particularly about the photography gear you can pick up to improve the photos you post on your blogs. That article received a lot of positive feedback, which is why I’m making another 3-essential-tools post.

Since a lot of bloggers are now taking online courses and pursuing a higher degree, I think it is time to take a look at the gadgets that will make the whole online learning experience much more enjoyable. In this part, we’re going to talk about the three essential tools every online student must have.

A Capable Laptop

One of the main advantages of taking an online course from top universities such as Bradley University is that you have the freedom and flexibility to study from anywhere and at any time. While taking the MSN to DNP online course, for instance, you can choose to spend an hour every day studying – and you can study from any place.

This means you need a computer that is both portable and capable. Depending on which operating system you like the most, there are basically two top picks to choose from. The first one is the Dell XPS 13 for those who want to stay with Windows 10. The bezel-less screen and capable processor are just the perfect combination for students.

On the other hand, we have the 2016 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina Display. Yes, I’m talking about the one without the new touchbar. It is more affordable than the touchbar-equipped sister and it offers the same performance and processing power for a much lower price. Since USB-C accessories are also more affordable today, this is the perfect MacBook to pick up.

The OnePlus 3T

I would recommend a good smartphone for two reasons. First, today’s online learning platforms, including the BSN to DNP online program we mentioned earlier, are also accessible via mobile devices, which means you can keep up with course assignments and learning materials easily using a capable smartphone. Also, a good smartphone can function as a modem. You don’t have to rely on Wi-Fi services to be able to access the learning platform and browse the web.

When it comes to capable smartphones, the OnePlus 3T is as good as it gets. Sure, there will be newer phones in a few months, but this Android phone will keep you going for at least two to three more years. It offers the (now) latest Snapdragon 821 processor from Qualcomm, paired with 6GB of RAM. The rest is history.

A Good Pair of Headphones

For a truly distraction-free learning experience, you need a headphone with a good noise cancelation feature. There is only one option to look into: Bose’s QuietComfort series. This line of headphones offer amazing audio quality and superb noise blocking capabilities, all in sleek and gorgeous packages.

The price might be a bit high for a pair of headphones, but Bose QuietComfort is definitely worth every penny. The right pair of headphones, combined with the two gadgets we have covered earlier, will make completing your online course a walk in the park.