Showing posts with label beat study stress. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beat study stress. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Semester Started! Time to get motivated

The new Uni semester has started and it is time to get motivated...if you aren't already!

By now you should have enrolled in all the units that you will undertake this semester whether it is a full time or part time load. Remember, there are academic penalties if you do not withdraw from a unit before a certain date if you decide not to continue with a particular subject - always check this with your University.

You may have already been to your first lecture this week where you get to know your new lecturer, find new friends and lecture rooms if this is your first year of study.

However, if you are studying externally - without face to face contact then no doubt you will already have been online and had a look at your course outline and materials and may have even downloaded some.

Either way, you should now know what is expected of you in this course in terms of assessment and attendance and what you should know by the end of the unit you are enrolled in. First week is mostly a bit of orientation, getting organised and setting yourself up for success- remember you can do this!

So, what questions have come about in your first week of Uni?

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Residential Schools

“The hardest thing to open is a closed mind.”
Author Unknown

Many Universities that offer external studies require students to attend a residential school or intensive school. This is where you need to attend the University for approximately three to five days.

Usually the cheapest way is to stay on campus in the dormitories if this option is available. The alternative is to source private accommodation at a nearby motel which can work out to be quite expensive.

Residential schools are what you make it. It is a time to meet and get to know your fellow students face to face and possibly make lasting friendships. Although the timetable scheduling can be full on with lecture after lecture and tutorial after tutorial, make the most of the opportunity by networking with other students and lecturers.

Ensure you are well prepared for lectures and tutorials with appropriate notes, texts and pen and paper or your laptop. You will find you will gain further insights and possible hints and tips for the exam and assignment. It is also a great opportunity to speak with your lecturer if you have any questions regarding aspects of the unit.

Your first residential school can be daunting but go in with an open mind and think of it as an adventure.
My top 5 tips for a successful residential school;
1. Keep an open mind - going in with a positive mindset
2. Get to know someone in your online tutorial group and plan to meet up with them
3. Familiarise yourself with a map of the campus – usually downloadable from your University website
4. Be prepared – read the text chapter required before arriving on your first day, have a notepad and pen ready
5. Smile and socialise with fellow students – there will be lots of interesting people to meet!

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

10 ways to beat study stress

10 ways to beat study stress
1. Deep breathing
Deep breathing provides fresh oxygen to your brain allowing you to feel more calm and alert.

2. Exercise
30 minutes of exercise a day will make your body and mind feel more energised and take your mind off that next assignment that is due. It will help you burn not only calories but any frustrations.

3. Herbal tea
Have a cup of your favourite herbal tea and sit back and relax.

4. Yoga
Try out some yoga poses – yoga stretches and relaxes your body. Great for both men and women

5. Take a break
Read a chapter of a non-text book, ring a friend for a chat, walk outside and spend time with your pet. Whatever you choose make sure it is away from your computer and your study space.

6. Discuss your topic
Discuss your topic with a friend who has a good ear to listen or with a fellow student to exchange ideas. Just talking out aloud about any problems you have with a topic can help find the answers.

7. Schedule Time
Put extra time aside for any work you need to catch up on. This may mean you have to say ‘no’ to helping out a friend or Friday drinks. Remember you want to reduce your stress levels so catching up on or getting ahead with study will help do this.

8. Ask for help
If you are struggling with an assignment – email or ring your lecturer. You will find they will be happy to help you. Ensure you have specific questions to ask and let them know where you are up to in your study.

9. Sleep
Are you getting enough sleep every night? If you are tired everyday you will find it difficult to concentrate. If you have young children this may be a tough task, but do the best you can to get adequate sleep.

10. Music
Bring music back into your life. Turn on your iPod and dance around the lounge or go for a walk. If you have music downloaded on your computer – turn them on! You will be amazed how your favourite music can put you in a good mood.