University Support: Student Success And Achievement

University is a time full of opportunities, but it can be challenging to know where to start and where you're headed. A university can help students achieve by providing them with the tools to build self-awareness, outlining why they learn what they learn, offering work-integrated learning opportunities, fostering collaboration, and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones. Students can also be supported by developing good study habits, improving time management skills, and setting achievable goals. Additionally, universities can help students by providing access to tutoring services, which offer personalized attention, improved study skills, and encouragement for independent learning. Sports and physical activity programs offered by universities also positively impact academic performance by increasing concentration and cognitive abilities, developing interpersonal skills, and providing a supportive community.

Organisation and time management

University students can benefit from writing "to-do" lists, prioritising tasks, and creating schedules or plans to help them stay organised. They should also allocate specific time slots for lectures, study sessions, and breaks, being realistic about how much time they need for each task. It is important not to overschedule and to factor in some flexibility, including time for self-care activities such as taking a bath, reading, or socialising with friends, to avoid burnout.

Students can use paper planners or digital tools such as calendar apps and scheduling apps to keep track of their tasks and deadlines. They can also use apps that block notifications and distractions to help them concentrate. It is also beneficial to establish consistent routines to reduce decision fatigue and improve productivity.

Additionally, students should find a dedicated study space and time where they can focus without distractions from friends, family, or hobbies, and their phones. They should also be realistic about the time they spend studying, as academic work involves a lot of researching, taking notes, writing, and analysing.

By implementing these organisation and time management strategies, university students can improve their productivity, reduce stress, and increase their chances of achieving their academic goals.

Effective study techniques

Organise and Plan

The first step towards effective studying is getting organised and creating a study plan. Carry a homework planner to keep track of assignments, projects, and tests. When making a study schedule, consider what needs to be accomplished, the types of questions you will encounter, and the topics covered. Set specific goals for each study session, such as the number of topics to cover. Organisation and planning will help you actively study for your courses and ensure you don't miss out on crucial learning opportunities.

Active Engagement

Reading and re-reading texts or notes is not enough. To truly engage with the material, you must construct meaning from the text by making connections to lectures, forming examples, and regulating your learning. Create study guides, formulate questions, and write complete answers. Become the teacher and explain the concepts aloud as if you were instructing a class. Derive examples from your own experiences and create concept maps or diagrams to visualise the material.

Time Management

Effective time management is critical for academic success. It involves staying on top of your readings, projects, and exams. Organise your daily, weekly, and monthly study schedule and stick to it. Use tools like time management apps, online planners, or physical calendars to track deadlines, exams, and study sessions. Prioritise your tasks and carve out specific time slots dedicated to studying to ensure you accomplish your high-priority items.

Study Environment

Designate a quiet, well-lit, and low-traffic area as your study spot. Ensure there is a clear workspace for you to study and write. If you find silence distracting, consider studying in a place with some background noise, such as a coffee shop or a library floor with a background 'buzz'. Be aware of distractions, such as cell phones and social media, and steer clear of them during study time.

Self-Care

Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for achieving your academic goals. Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and prioritise sleep to boost your immune system and reduce stress. Schedule downtime and fun activities to improve your well-being and increase your chances of academic success.

Support System

Surround yourself with supportive people who motivate you throughout your educational journey. Open up to your family, friends, and peers about your experiences, accomplishments, and challenges. Lean on your instructors and classmates for support, as they can provide valuable guidance and collaboration opportunities.

Additional Resources

Take advantage of additional resources such as tutoring services, textbooks, practice exams, and other study materials to supplement your learning. Tutors can offer personalised attention, boost your confidence, and help you develop improved study skills and time management strategies.

Remember, effective studying is a skill that requires patience, practice, and constant improvement. Find what works best for you, stay motivated, and don't be afraid to seek help when needed.

Building student-professor trust

Building trust between students and professors is essential for a university to help its students achieve. Trust creates a safe space for learning, where students feel confident expressing themselves and taking risks. It also promotes open communication, which allows for active feedback and personalised support, fostering stronger relationships.

So, how can universities build trust between students and professors?

Firstly, professors should acknowledge any particular student anxieties and be transparent about their course goals and methods. They should also promote a sense of community and belonging within their courses and establish norms of dignity and respect. It is important that students feel safe and valued in the classroom.

Secondly, professors should provide students with multiple opportunities to demonstrate their learning and give frequent formative feedback. They should also show flexibility with assignments and deadlines to allow students to produce their best work.

Thirdly, professors should actively listen to students, seek their feedback, and involve them in decision-making processes. Getting to know students on a personal level can help build trust. This includes learning about students' backgrounds, families, interests, likes, and dislikes. Creating games and activities that facilitate this process can help students open up without hesitation.

Additionally, professors should accept that students will make mistakes and help them see these as learning opportunities. Providing choices in assignments, teaching methods, and short break activities can also build trust, as it demonstrates that professors value students as individuals.

Finally, it is important for professors to communicate clearly and frequently with students, show appreciation and recognition for their achievements, and share their expertise and resources.

Providing work-integrated learning opportunities

One of the primary benefits of WIL is the development of a professional identity. Students gain a deeper understanding of their chosen career paths and the skills needed to succeed in those roles. They also enhance their theoretical knowledge and transferable skills, such as effective communication with diverse individuals and teams. This type of learning fosters collaboration and encourages problem-posing, problem-solving, and self-management skills.

Additionally, work-integrated learning opportunities help students improve their digital literacy skills and understand ethical practices in their industries. These experiences provide students with valuable industry connections and the chance to put their learning to the test. The hands-on nature of WIL allows students to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, making career-defining decisions and gaining a better sense of their purpose in life.

Universities play a pivotal role in facilitating these opportunities by forming collaborative agreements with companies and organisations. This ensures that students have access to reputable and respected industry leaders, providing them with invaluable experiences and insights that will benefit their future careers.

Encouraging independent learning

So, how can universities encourage independent learning?

Firstly, it is important to provide students with opportunities to self-monitor. This involves helping students to set goals and receive feedback from both teachers and peers. Students can then reflect on their work and recognise areas for improvement. This can be facilitated by providing written and/or oral feedback on classwork and homework, and encouraging students to keep a 'learning diary'.

Secondly, universities can use questioning as a scaffold to independent learning. Teachers should ask higher-order, open-ended questions to promote thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of the material. This gradually transfers responsibility from the teacher to the student.

Thirdly, universities can offer models of behaviour and communication that include language focused on learning. For example, by showing students how categorising information can aid memory. This helps students to become more aware of the steps involved in learning and to understand their own learning style.

Furthermore, universities can encourage group tasks and learning. Collaboration allows students to learn from their peers and develop new skills in communication and listening. Students can look to each other for answers and questions, fostering an environment of independent learning.

Finally, universities can give students criteria to check their work against. This provides guidance and direction, allowing students to identify areas of improvement and excel in their studies.

By implementing these strategies, universities can effectively encourage independent learning and help students to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their academic and professional careers.

Frequently asked questions