The road to independent learning Simon Ahern Access Office NUI Maynooth Better Options November 28 TH 2012 Dublin City University

1.Common concerns or anxieties faced by learners approaching higher education 2.Academic skills that you need 3.How institutions provide help along the way 4.Modern teaching approaches 5.Personal skills to succeed in higher education Presentation Outline

Common concerns or anxieties faced by learners in higher education – The course might be too difficult. – Everyone else will be smarter than me. – Everyone else will be more technical. – The learning environment will be scary. – I might not have the skills to succeed in higher education. – I won’t know anyone there. – I have a fear of failure.

What can I do? Start planning now! Your course may take 3-4 years so choose subjects you like! Investigate courses and locations - visit campuses Ask questions and visit websites:

Academic skills you need to succeed in higher education Critical Thinking – Time Management – Organisation – Notetaking – Research – Reading and Writing – Technology – Exams and assessments Study Skills

Become a Critical Thinker – not so much about facts but how you use them. – learn how ideas are linked and interconnected. – structure your ideas and knowledge to make a convincing argument.

Time Management, Organisation and Study Skills Plan your day, set and meet deadlines Sort your priorities and stay motivated Learn note taking and memory techniques Find resources in library and online Develop a revision and exam strategy

Reading, Writing & Research Read not to memorise but to understand. Evaluate the evidence, read between the lines and reflect on issues to have an informed opinion. Present your point of view, informed by evidence. Develop academic writing strategies and understand plagiarism, referencing, structure and content.

How Institutions provide you with help along the way Orientation sessions Study and technology skills training Library information Supports for students with disabilities Academic Advisors Writing/ Maths Support Centre Student Services Clubs and Societies

Modern Teaching Approaches Lectures and Tutorials Online learning environment (slides, forums, assignments, webinars) Blended learning (class polls, twitter) Mainstreamed learning supports Peer learning (study groups, wikis) Collaboration (Google, Facebook, presenting tools)

Tips for getting started - investigate best account for you Calendar - paper or online Storage - get a memory stick/ dropbox Courses - visit qualifax.ie, uni websites Typing - google “ztype” Research – use twitter Technology - ECDL, office.microsoft.com/training Finances - studentfinance.ie

Conclusion: Personal Skills to succeed in higher education 3rd level is up to you. Be determined and stay motivated. Aim to survive the first few weeks. Have a good work/ study/ life balance. Access supports/ build relationships. Develop relevant critical thinking and study skills. Prepare for your Leaving Certificate then figure out college as you go. Relax and enjoy the experience!