Adapting to academic study
In the midst of all that makes up University life, it is worth considering your approach to learning and studying. Take a moment to answer the following two questions. Thinking about them, and being honest with yourself (no one else will see the answers!), is an important first step towards successful academic study. You’ll know the answers, so think about how you are approaching your studies and this could lead you to make some easy changes which will have a postive impact on your academic life.
This page is accurate for students on courses accredited by the University of South Wales (formerly Glamorgan). It has not yet been updated to include advice for students whose courses are accredited by the University of Wales (i.e. courses based in Newport).
How many of your scheduled lectures and tutorials have you attended so far?
Academics working on an attendance monitoring project have proved that there is a statistical link between the number of classes you attend and your grade at the end of the module, so think about your commitment to your studies and remember that every class you attend will help you with your performance. Some students find it helpful to think of their studies as their employment – turning up for work even when you don’t feel like it is something you have to do, so treat your studies in the same way.
How much supplementary subject reading do you do?
If you read good quality newspapers, keep yourself up to date with recruitment and employment in your subject area and generally understand the wider context in which your subject sits – you will really benefit from the wider knowledge this gives you. It will also help you make more sense of your subject reading and may also be helpful when preparing for tutorial tasks.
Further information
For tips, advice and information for successful study, visit the Education Drop-in Centres, a Service which aims to give you a better start to student life at the University.
If you’d like to find out more about what influences your learning and what motivates you to study, take part in the Study Pattern Indicator questionnaire.
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