You’ll have heard a lot of people saying that studying at university means becoming an independent learner. This can sound quite a daunting prospect, especially if you have received a lot of guidance and support in your studies up until now. The good news is that being an independent learner doesn’t mean doing it all on your own.
So, what is independent learning then? For starters, here are six key things you’ll be expected to do:
- Manage your time. You will have control over when and where you study so it’s a good idea to create a weekly timetable that suits you and helps you avoid stress. Build in time for study, for important commitments and for fun. Don’t forget to leave space for doing nothing in particular.
- Motivate yourself. It will be up to you to keep going, even when things are tough. Now is the time to think about your own goals and strategies and to be prepared to adjust them as time goes on. If your motivation falters, there is always someone to talk to, so don’t hesitate to contact your Student Learning Advisor or someone else you think might help.
- Make choices and take responsibility for your learning. You’ll be choosing your study pathway at university, depending on your interests. This can give you a feeling of great freedom, but if you find you’ve made a choice that feels wrong, make sure you talk to your Academic Tutor in your department.
- Find, select and use learning resources. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn how to use the library and the learning resources for your course. There’ll be information sessions and drop-ins available and you can contact your Academic Liaison Librarian at the Library at any time with a question.
- Think things through. You’ll be encouraged to analyse, question and think deeply about what you are learning. There will be opportunities to talk about what you are learning with others, both formally and informally. This will help you to develop a critical perspective within your subject area and to show this in your written assignments. There’s plenty of guidance about how to develop your critical thinking on the Learning Development website.
- Find out how to access support. Part of being independent is knowing where and how to access all the services designed to support you along the way. There is a whole range of support available at Lancaster, so do make the most of what’s on offer.
So, make the most of your freedom and get ready to try things out. Expect the experience to be challenging in unexpected ways, but keep an open mind and you’ll learn a great deal about yourself as well as your chosen subject.
Image: Tom Longman