There is an increasing trend in Universities and Colleges towards independent learning, so moving towards independence in studying as quickly as possible is a major key to success. This practical book and the accompanying online course are aimed at helping you improve your skills, develop a personal development portfolio and become a more independent learner, empowering you to study more effectively and efficiently. Straightforward language and a pragmatic approach. An ideal package for pre-university students, those just starting university and for those studying in the UKfor the first time. A ‘how to do it’ book and a ‘practice as you go’ online course based on years of knowledge, experience and practice which will enable you to achieve success in your studies.

Table of Contents:
PART ONE - DEVELOPING STUDY SKILLS Introduction Learning opportunity Chapter 1 - Learning to learn How do we learn? Lifelong learning University or college learning Independent learning Learning styles Factors that influence learning Building on learning strengths and overcoming blockages to learning Chapter 2 - Keeping a Portfolio What is a portfolio? Skills audit Reflection in your portfolio Chapter 3 - Employability Conduct a self analysis Explore the career options Developing a curriculum vitae (CV) Preparing for an interview Chapter 4 - Reading for study Why are you reading? What happens when you read? Ways of reading Which technique? Selecting reading material Other useful techniques How to read faster Critically evaluative reading Chapter 5 - Communication The process of interpersonal communication Non-verbal communication Written communication Words that are often confused Spelling Active or passive voice? Transitional words and phrases Style Glossary Chapter 6 - Making notes Why make notes? Ways of making notes Making notes from text Making notes in lectures Making notes from a group discussion Abbreviations and symbols Keeping notes Chapter 7 - Working with numbers Numerical data Making data easier to handle Describing the data with pictures Describing the data – numerical summaries Spreadsheet software Answers to exercises Chapter 8 - Information technology skills Some terms defined Organising your work Windows Word processing software - Word Spreadsheet software  – Excel Presentation software - Powerpoint Answers to exercises Chapter 9 - Researching and obtaining information A systematic approach to information gathering Secondary sources Printed resources Other media Other sources of secondary information The Internet Evaluation of information When to stop collecting secondary information Primary Data Collection Analysis of data Answers to exercises          Chapter 10 - Group and Team Working Skills Why should students know about group dynamics? Small group dynamics Development of norms Roles Cohesiveness Developmental stages of groups How to know more about groups Differences between groups and teams Working in groups and teams at university or college  Chapter 11 - Time Management How to manage your time effectively Essentials of time management Time wasters Personal benefits from effective time management Chapter 12 - Managing stress What is stress? Some consequences of stress Causes of stress Life events Managing stress Coping mechanisms Specific stress associated with being a student Manage your time PART TWO - DEVELOPING ASSESSMENT SKILLS Learning opportunity Expectations Assessment criteria Presentation of assessments Deadlines Group assessments Feedback Chapter 13 - Case studies The use of case studies Framework for case study analysis Presentation of answers Chapter 14 - Presentations Purposes of presentations Preparation Structure Approach The presentation Visual aids Questions Assessed presentations Creating a presentation using Powerpoint Chapter 15 - Essay writing Analyse the essay title Finding your material Making an essay plan or outline Producing a rough draft