When you start at university, there may be approaches which are new to you. You are here to become an independent learner and to develop individual learning skills. The course materials you receive will be designed to help you do this, as well as giving you an understanding of your subject.

To find out what learning style you use to help us help you further, download our quiz.

How do you learn best? (pdf document, 250k).

What to expect

	What sort of skills do you already have, which will be useful in your studies? (See Cottrell, S (2000) 'The Study Skills Handbook' , Basingstoke ; Palgrove Macmillan) pages 17 - 26, or visit the Learning Support website .
	How will course information be presented to students? (Check out the jargon buster, or look at 'The Study Skills Handbook', page 143)
	How much time will you need to spend on your studies? (There are examples of timecharts in the 'Study Skills Handbook, pages 64-73)
	Do you have other commitments to fit in? (Again, check out pages 64-73 of the 'Study Skills Handbook')
	Are you anxious about any aspect of being at university? (You can always contact the Learning Support Team on 0161 247 3491, for further advice on any aspect of your studies)

The best way to start becoming an independent learner is to get organised. How can you do this?

• Motivation

Think about why you have chosen the course you are about to start. Can you choose one or two reasons why you want to succeed on the course?

Use these as 'goals' to keep you on track during your studies.

• Where and when to study

Think about how you study best, or what might distract you from study. Do you have a workspace that is well lit and ventilated? What is the best time for you to study?

Try the online questionnaire at Campaign for Learning

• Time management

Time is one thing you will find you don't have enough of. Start to think about what needs doing, when and where to fit all your activities in. Don't forget about eating and sleeping!

There is more information about managing your time on the Learning Support Unit website (details above), or in the many study guides in the MMU libraries.