This book will help to improve confidence and help part-time and distance learning students to build on the skills and experience gained at work.  Throughout the book examples are included using real life case studies drawn from the experiences of students who have been successful in achieving their degree without giving up their job.

Table of Contents:
Preface   Chapter 1 Studying: a life changing experience Difference patterns of work and study Auditing your support network Understanding your learning style Using your workplace as a source of learning Finding a place and time to study Time management Barriers to learning Managing morale and motivation References / further reading   Chapter 2 Personal Development Planning Reflective Writing Personal Development Planning (PDP) Producing a Professional Development Portfolio References / Further reading   Chapter 3 Strategies for supporting learning Using the Learning Resources Centre Reading effectively Making notes and effective summaries of texts Identifying key points from lectures Learning in tutorials, groups and seminars Looking at available support for improving basic skills References / Further reading   Chapter 4 Using technology to enhance your learning Using the internet and electronic resources The importance of anti-virus software and backups Learning online in the virtual classroom Developing your information technology skills   Chapter 5 Preparing for research Preliminary issues Gaining access to workplace data The research process Determining what to research Ethical considerations Reviewing the literature Ensuring validity and reliability Choosing your research sample References / Further reading   Chapter 6 Data collection, analysis and presentation Choosing an appropriate methodology Qualitative data collection methods Quantitative data collection methods Analysing qualitative data Analysing quantitative data Presenting the findings Drawing conclusions from the data References / Further reading   Chapter 7 Quotations, citations and bibliographies Why you need to cite your sources Quotation in the text How to cite work in the text Using and citing electronic material Footnotes and endnotes Compiling a bibliography Electronic bibliographic management How to avoid plagiarism References / Further Reading   Chapter 8 Techniques for academic writing Expectations of academic writing Understanding generic assessment criteria and marking schemes Managing the writing process for producing assignments Preparing for your first essay Writing for academic purposes – some practical guidance The process of writing your essay Writing reports and dissertations References / Further reading   Chapter 9 Developing Oral Presentation Skills Why develop presentation skills Participating in seminars and tutorials How to plan an effective presentation Using audio visual aids Using PowerPoint and other technology Making your presentation Group presentations References / Further reading   Chapter 10 Coping with exams and revision Stress management Drawing up a revision timetable Planning an examination strategy The night before the exam The day of the exam During the exam References / Further reading   Chapter 11 After your degree: looking to the future Using your careers service Auditing your personal experiences Writing a professional CV Completing your application References / Further reading   Bibliography Glossary Index