Mangaging your studies
Self management
Research has shown that the single most important factor related to academic success at university is effective self-management. Regardless of your level of schooling, or whether or not you have completed any study recently, effective management of your studies is critical.
Course requirements
It is difficult to manage something that you do not fully understand. Therefore, the most important first step is to gain a clear understanding of all aspects of the requirements and demands of the course you have undertaken.
Structure of the academic year
It is vital to consider the implications of the structure of the academic year and the time scales involved - that is, there are nine months, with significant breaks due to vacations and exam periods. Similarly, the structure of each semester needs to be analysed so that effective short-term and long-term planning can begin.
Personal commitments
A variety of personal factors can also make demands upon you during the academic year - family commitments, employment needs, financial considerations, leaving home, making new friends, health and fitness, recreational pursuits and so on. If possible, such commitments need to be carefully appraised and monitored so that an appropriate balance can be struck.
Developing strategies
It is possible to do certain things to prepare for returning to, or continuing with, further study. However, any major venture such as first year at university also involves new and unforeseen challenges. It is important therefore to evaluate your individual situation and your skills as a learner and a manager of your studies. Reviewing your own progress after the first four to five weeks can help determine if any adjustments need to be made.
SOME USEFUL TIPS
- Read Chapter 1 of the Study Skills Guide (Reed and Keamy, 1999).
- Evaluate your time-management skills. Effective use of time, both on-campus and at home, is critical. Seek help early if you are having difficulties.
- Gain a clear understanding of the requirements of your course - that is, the individual subjects, the relationship between subjects, exam commitments, industry placements, etc.
- Subjects can have several components - lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, self-directed learning activities, etc. Ensure that you understand the demands of each component within a subject, particularly in relation to set assessment tasks.
- It is useful to determine the workload for each subject. Use a calendar planner or draw a timeline for the semester (including all vacations and exam periods) which shows when assessment tasks are due.
- Consider how any known personal commitments impact upon your study workload.
- Prepare a time and workload management plan and backplan to avoid overload, especially in relation to major assessment tasks.
- Develop appropriate routines for study at home and on campus, library research, access to tutors and so on.
- Make conscious decisions about where and when you study and seek out positive study environments (adequate lighting and ventilation, minimal distractions, etc).
- Set clear, realistic goals for whatever learning activity you are undertaking.
- Remember that trial and error and experimentation are valid aspects of the learning process. It may take some time for you to determine what works bestfor you in terms of such things as concentration span, optimal study times, appropriate study environments and so on.
- Don't forget that you are organic - that you have physical needs pertaining to such things as a balanced diet and appropriate rest and relaxation.
It is difficult to make good progress and to do good work if confidence is lacking and anxiety levels are high. The key is to talk to lecturers, tutors, academic skills advisors or student support staff - whoever is most appropriate - as early as possible so that any difficulties can be resolved.
Remember: to learn anything, you only have to learn one thing - to ask questions!