Academic Study and Learning
As a prospective student, you may be wondering how you will adjust to the independent study required at University.
Here are some common concerns we hear from people considering higher education:
- How do I write “academically”, especially if English is not my first language?
- How do I develop the study skills I need if I'm attending University after a break in my formal education?
- I'm not feeling very confident about my maths skills, can you help me?
- How do I fit in study around my other commitments?
It is important to understand that learning independently does not mean you have to do it all on your own. In fact, successful independent learners are those who build a strong support network to help them develop their skills and confidence.
Academic support
Our friendly tutors and advisors can help you to develop your academic and learning skills. These include the Academic Skills Advice service, specialist English language tutors in the Language Centre, and our knowledgeable Subject Librarians. These services can all provide you with the right support at the right time in your education. You can find out more about all these academic support services when you join us.
Prior to the start of your studies, we have online self-access resources on a variety of topics:
- Step Up to HE – online resources for new undergraduate students including how to prepare for your first year, finding resources and navigating group work.
- Step Up to PGT HE – online resources for new postgraduate-taught students including modules on ‘What is academic study?’ and ‘Preparing for PGT study’.
You can access these resources throughout your time at the University of Bradford to help navigate how to approach and be proactive in your academic studies with the aim of becoming a successful independent learner.
Our specialists’ top tips
A great way to prepare for your course is to maintain your passion for the subject discipline you are planning to study. Enjoy watching TED talks and/or reading introductory literature to keep connected to the interest you have in it.
Spending time on your skills development is a normal and expected aspect of your learning experience. We strongly encourage you to focus on it alongside your studies regardless of whether you want the confidence to know you will pass or you are aiming for that First!
University study is different to the study you have probably done before. Not all learning and work happens in your timetabled hours. You will be required to work in your own time, therefore scheduling and planning study time around classes is key to your success.
Take advantage of the weeks leading up to enrolment to get ahead by exploring the University website and completing the Step UP to HE – Preparing for Your First Year or Preparing for PGT Study – modules that provide insight into expectations and support, as well as self-reflection activities so you can feel confident and prepared.
New undergraduate students can also take part in our specialised academic transition Step Up to HE event that runs at the beginning of every academic year before Welcome Week.
Making the most of the opportunities on offer will pay off in the long run!
What do our students say?
As an international student …in my country it’s more general English and not academic English that you learn. The emphasis on Academic English in the classes run by the Language Centre have been valuable.
I attended one of the workshops related to referencing which is used by my course. This was really helpful to me. I would recommend making the most of the opportunities and support provided by the University.
I would go to the academic skills sessions for essay support and one to one tuition to help better prepare me for my assignments. I also had a lot of help from my personal tutor with my personal projects. At the University of Bradford there is always someone who can help.
Your next steps
Start to reflect on your prior experiences of study and begin to identify your own strengths and some of the challenges you might face. You can even complete the Setting Learning Goals module to explore what you want to achieve this year, what actions you will take, how to stay motivated and what support you might need.
You can also use the Independent Learning and action plan resources below.
Independent Learning PowerPoint Presentation
PowerPoint presentation on how to become an empowered and independent learner.
If you require this information in an alternative format, please contact our team. You can also read our Website Accessibility Statement.
Independent Learning Action Plan
Use this Action plan template to reflect on how you could be an independent learner.
If you require this information in an alternative format, please contact our team. You can also read our Website Accessibility Statement.