Learning at university

1 big difference between school and university is the level of independence expected of students.

As well as possibly living away from home, most of your student's time at university will be spent studying independently.

What is independent learning?

A big difference between school and university is the teaching style, with an emphasis on independent learning. Let's first understand the different ways students learn at university:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Practical Sessions
• Lab Work
• Workshops
• Group work
• Field trips

These ways of learning are usually led by academics and teaching staff in what we call timetabled 'contact' activities. Outside of this, students are expected to 'self-study', including reading, researching, critically evaluating and writing.

At university, students are in the driving seat of their own learning. They'll be responsible for managing their own time, setting their own goals, and working independently to achieve them. All whilst evaluating and reflecting on what has been learnt.

The hallmarks of independent learning

• Good motivation
• Independence
• Good time management
• Strong reading and writing skills
• Resilience

These skills and characteristics can be developed and strengthened through practise. Encourage your students to work on these to help them become as prepared as possible.

Preparing students for learning at university

You can start promoting independent learning in school or college to prepare your students for university. Opportunities to develop their academic skills and knowledge can come from lots of different sources.

The most important thing is that students are able to reflect on what they have learnt. Here are a few examples.