Welcome back to our “Conversations with Experts” series. In this post, Lesley, Aaron, Jenna, and Callum, the IAD’s Study Development Advisors, share how a Study Skills Consultation (SSC) can help you step up your study game.
Undoubtedly, for some, the transition into higher education presents academic challenges. Keeping up with readings and course work, attending lectures, and handing in your first assignments is no easy task. Not all students, however, are familiar with the Study Skills Consultations offered by the University’s Institute for Academic Development. These one-to-one sessions with Study Development Advisors are a great opportunity for students to discuss and evaluate their study habits.
The Study Skills Consultations aim to help students improve their learning routine and develop effective study strategies. Whether it be providing insight on reading techniques and note making or critical thinking and time management skills, the consultations are designed to aid students with a wide variety of topics. Attending a consultation allows students to gain access to personalized advice and practical strategies unique to their academic needs.
With this interview, dive deep into the knowledge shared by the Study Development Advisors.
What are the reasons students request Study Skills consultations?
There’s a huge variety, but I think it ultimately comes down to things aren’t working as well as they used to, so they know they need to change something but perhaps aren’t sure what to change, or how to change it. In terms of a list: reading effectively, how to be more critical (in their writing which in turn means they need to be more critical in their reading), revising effectively, essay planning, planning their time e.g. how to make a revision plan or plan their time with studies and work etc., the writing process, how to make notes (either in class or from reading) – Jenna
Are there any advice/services that students often seek that lies outside the advice you can offer?
There are two common requests from students that I’m not the best person to advise on. Those are proofreading and English language advice. Regarding proofreading, we deliberately do not look at or comment on students writing to encourage them to develop that skill for themselves, emphasising that being able to ‘polish’ their own work is an essential aspect of academic writing. Regarding English language advice, we advise students to contact the University’s English Language Education service, who are specialists in that department! – Callum
As a Study Skills Consultant, what do you find most fulfilling about your job?
For me, it’s seeing a student feeling better about things – it could be them feeling just a little less stressed or overwhelmed about their exams, or it could be that they’ve now confidently decided on how they’re going to structure their essay. – Jenna
As a Study Development Adviser, the most fulfilling aspect of my job is helping students to feel more confident about their approach to their studies and to reach their potential/ achieve what they are capable of. I love to see students develop and motivated to learn. – Lesley
How would you advise students to prepare for their Study Skills Consultation session?
Students benefit most from their Study Skills Consultations when they approach the conversation with openness and honesty about their study challenges. Being receptive to advice that may seem daunting or unfamiliar is also crucial, so coming in with an open mind always helps. Finally, just relax – the consultations are informal and with friendly advisors who genuinely want to help you! – Callum
Whether it be your first semester at the University or later on in your degree, consider booking a SSC to upgrade your study game!
