What You Need To Know To Be Prepared For Starting University
Bridging The Gap From College To University With These Success Strategies College is a transformative period where you grow academically and personally. However, taking the leap to university is a significant step that brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. Each year, millions of students across the UK embark on this journey, seeking higher education and new experiences. 2021/2022 saw 2,182,560 students enrolled to study at university, most of which were undergraduates, but well over 400,000 were postgraduates. The summer before you start university is filled with excitement and nerves—the excitement of a new chapter and the nerves of not knowing what to expect. As you prepare to tackle university life, keep in mind that this lifestyle requires greater independence, advanced study skills, and the ability to manage time effectively. As such, navigating this transition successfully is essential for your academic and personal growth. Understanding and implementing key strategies can help you bridge the gap from college to university, ensuring you thrive in your new environment. If you are ready to find out more, keep reading, as we share tips on how to navigate this transition seamlessly. Why Transitioning From College To University Is Challenging Although we have mentioned that university life is very independent, why is the transition from college to university challenging for many students? According to a post produced by the Cardiff Learning and Teaching Academy, it highlights one of the most noticeable difference between college and university: “At A-level, knowledge is packaged neatly in a textbook, offering an accessible, controllable,and convenient source of information with ‘correct’ answers. Demonstration of knowledge, usually in the form of writing, involves highly prescribed structure and content. Fast forward four months, students are faced with: • an increase in the volume, difficulty, and depth of knowledge • an increase in the range of text types • changes in writing at ‘surface’ level (e.g. level of formality) • changes in ‘habitual’ writing practices (e.g. making detailed notes about sources) • changes in engagement with knowledge (e.g. expectations to do wider reading and develop their own understanding, working with the knowledge of others).” At university, students are expected to cite resources, hit high word counts, check work for plagiarism, and ensure work is written to an even higher standard. For many students, this writing and working style is unchartered territory. Added on top of this, university courses often require a higher level of independent study compared to college. The increase in workload and the expectation to manage time effectively can be overwhelming, especially for those who find it difficult to manage their time effectively. If this wasn’t demanding enough, moving away from home for the first time can add to the stress. Adjusting to different teaching styles and assessment methods at university can also be difficult. Lectures can be less interactive, and the responsibility for learning often falls more heavily on you, so it is important to seek out resources to help bridge this gap. Fortunately, many universities offer support services such as academic advising, tutoring, and workshops on study skills. Building a strong foundation in these early stages can make the transition smoother. Developing A Growth Mindset For University Success Don’t worry; the university experience does not always feel this overwhelming and stressful. If you have the right tools and pillars in place to help you, your experience from college to university can be a positive one. The best place to start is by adopting a growth mindset. A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This contrasts with a fixed mindset, where individuals believe their qualities are set in stone. Embracing a growth mindset encourages you to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Focus on setting achievable goals and celebrating small victories. Reflect on your academic progress and identify areas for improvement. Engage actively in lectures, seek feedback from professors, and participate in group discussions to foster a growth-oriented approach. If you focus on continuous improvement rather than perfection, you can build resilience and adaptability. Effective Study Habits To Carry From College To University Alongside a growth mindset, another useful tool for university is study habits. Carrying forward effective study habits from college is essential for university success. Organising study material and managing time efficiently are key components. And so establish a regular study schedule, as this will help you keep up with coursework and avoid last-minute cramming. You can also use study aids such as flashcards, summary notes, and online resources to help you enhance your understanding. Additionally, make use of resources like study material at Studocu to access prep study notes and study guides. These tools can provide additional insights and help reinforce learning. Engaging with such platforms can offer diverse study help, making it easier to grasp complex concepts and prepare thoroughly for exams. Moreover, create a dedicated study space free from distractions to improve focus and productivity. Regularly review lecture notes and integrate them with textbook readings to ensure a thorough grasp of the material. Also, collaborating with peers in study groups can provide different perspectives and facilitate deeper understanding. If you employ these strategies, you can create a strong academic foundation and improve overall performance. Building A Support Network At University Speaking of collaborating with others, a robust support network is vital for navigating university life. As UCL MPhil Philosophy student Dylan Ngan says, “These new acquaintances and friends can share your journey with you and help support you with settling in and dealing with challenging times and situations – i.e., when you are having a ‘wobble.’ Embrace the new experience and the new networks. New people, unfamiliar and even uncomfortable at first, can help you adjust and grow.” Connecting with peers, professors, and university staff can provide emotional and academic support; while joining student organisations, clubs, and societies can help you build friendships and offer a sense of community. These groups often provide opportunities for social interaction, networking, and professional development. Establishing relationships with professors and academic advisors can also be beneficial as they can offer guidance on academic matters, career advice, and
Redefining success – are exams the best measure for everyone?
Emma Sanderson, Managing Director of Options Autism, a specialist provider of education and care for autistic pupils and those with complex needs, believes it’s time to consider other measures of success than A-levels and GCSEs. As many students across the country anxiously await their exam results, is it time to consider if our one-size-fits-all exam system is fit for purpose. What impact does it have on our young people? Is our continuing insistence on content heavy, narrow testing, affording young people only one path to success, contributing to students in UK schools having some of the poorest mental health outcomes in the world? In 2022, 25% of students participating in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) programme for international students assessment (Pisa)‘rated their satisfaction with life between 0 and 4 on a scale of 0-10’. That’s one quarter of those who took part. In the Children’s Commissioner’s, The Good Childhood Report (2023), 10% of the 10-17 year-olds surveyed, reported having low wellbeing; and ‘getting good grades’ was the third greatest worry for these children and young people. This year’s grades are forecast to decrease across the board, and continue to do so until 2030, so how equitable is the system, or is it just the luck of the draw? Performance in these tests can determine a young person’s future, and those who do not perform to a certain level are to some extent branded failures, creating a self-esteem deficit that is difficult to erase. The present system is limiting. Reducing the curriculum to easily quantifiable elements provides a simple ranking structure so schools can be ‘compared’ in league tables. But surely the best measure of a good school is its ability to enable each student to reach their full potential? Exams measure aptitude in taking exams. They rank skills such as the retention of facts and the performance of linear tasks under pressure, which in many cases have no bearing on what a young person needs to navigate the world. Many neurodiverse individuals struggle with working memory performance and the anxiety created by the examination process itself. ‘Reasonable adjustments’ rarely level the playing field. Additional time, movement breaks, prompts or a scribe, do not address the fundamental shortcomings of the system itself. With such a narrow focus on what ‘success’ looks like, we can fail to identify untapped talents. Many neurodiverse individuals have highlighted the limitations of the exam system as an accurate indicator of future success. Steve Jobs dropped out of college in his first semester with a poor Grade Point Average (GPA), but went onto found one of the most innovative and successful corporations in the world. Using assessments that only provide a single opportunity to rate achievement and attainment, presents barriers to all students. For those with special educational needs, the challenges can be overwhelming and the negative impact on their wellbeing is often exacerbated. We need assessments with the flexibility required to allow us to appreciate the potential of an individual. A system that takes into account the soft skills that all employers are looking for – the ability to think creatively, collaborate and communicate. Designing assessments that provide a fuller picture of an individual student, will require us to think outside the exam ‘box’.
Identifying speech, language and communication needs – 6 signs to look out for
There is growing recognition that identifying speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) as early as possible is key. By Hannah Cook In the UK today, 1.9 million children and young people are affected by SLCN impacting their ability to learn, socialise and thrive. Despite its importance, it can be challenging to identify SLCN in a busy classroom environment, particularly when students’ needs can be hidden or perceived as behavioural difficulties. If you are concerned that any of your learners are struggling with SLCN, here are six signs to look out for. 1: Following instructions Many students struggle with classroom instructions, which can often look like non-compliance. A child or young person can become very adept at concealing their difficulties by imitating others. Foster a communication-friendly environment by breaking instructions into smaller chunks and saying them in the order you want them carried out. Spoken words disappear, but visuals such as task plans, visual timetables or ‘now and next’ boards can be referred back to easily. 2: Vocabulary A student might use generalised vocabulary (‘I’m doing cakes’), or make semantic (meaning) and/or phonological (sound) errors in their talking. They might struggle to remember and use more specialised vocabulary related to specific topics or abstract concepts. To support this, create a word wall or topic dictionary for new words and ensure students can use them in sentences. Word maps are a great way to explore meanings and sound qualities. And repeat, repeat, repeat! 3: Putting words together Some students find it tricky to structure sentences and/or narratives. Look out for those who struggle with responding to open-ended questions, prefer yes/no questions, or tend to provide convoluted or incomplete responses —an expressive language difficulty might be preventing them from giving an accurate account of events. Use visuals e.g. who/what/when/where narrative frameworks, and repeat sentences back so the child can hear a correct model. The most important thing is to give extra time for the child or young person to express themselves. 4: Making friends Building and maintaining friendships is highly fulfilling and integral to school life. If you suspect a student is struggling to form friendships, start by understanding their perspective on the importance of having friends and what friendship means to them. Set up buddy systems and support playground games. Having a mixture of break/lunchtime clubs, where children with similar interests can meet organically helps less confident individuals grow friendships. 5: Play Play underpins speech, language and communication development, and evolves throughout childhood. It’s important to investigate when a child isn’t meeting milestones, e.g. younger children struggling with pretend play, or older children having difficulties negotiating the rules of a game or group dynamics. For younger children, try developing a creative plot with toys they’re interested in. Older children might benefit from you modelling and navigating the rules alongside them. Always consider neurodiversity! Neurodivergent students might explore toys and engage in games differently and this should be validated and honoured. 6: Displaying behavioural responses Finding it difficult to understand others and express yourself can be hugely frustrating and emotionally overwhelming. Educators can sometimes see behaviours in children and young people that are actually resulting from unseen or unmet needs – for example, distressed behaviours or withdrawing from lessons. In heightened moments, try modelling behaviours you want to see e.g. calm voice; open, non-threatening body language, and simplify your language. Attempting to problem-solve while a child is dysregulated is unlikely to succeed, and adding more demands when they are already overwhelmed may escalate the situation further. For students who withdraw, check in with them: does their written work show their understanding? Are they more confident sharing their learning with a peer? Explore whether additional psychological needs might be impacting them, for example, selective mutism or anxiety. If you are concerned about a child or young person’s SLCN, contact your local speech and language therapy service in the first instance. Hannah Cook is Speech and Language Therapist at Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. The Trust has developed Verbo – an award-winning online speech and language therapy toolkit for children and young people from age 2 through to young adulthood. Verbo offers instant access to screening tools, personalised target trackers, bite-size training and ready-to-go activities and interventions. For more information, visit www.verboapp.co.uk
Practical tips for managing digital learning
By Dakota Murphey The integration of technology into education offers exciting opportunities to enhance student engagement, personalise learning, and prepare students for an increasingly digital world. However, for many educators, navigating this digital frontier can feel overwhelming and chaotic. The shift to digital learning brings with it a host of challenges: managing student device usage, choosing appropriate digital tools, integrating technology seamlessly into lesson plans, and ensuring equitable access for all students. Educators not only need to master new technologies themselves but also guide their students in using these tools effectively and responsibly, and help encourage students to consider tech roles for themselves in the future. Creating a tech-friendly classroom layout Creating a tech-friendly classroom layout is essential for maximising the benefits of digital learning while minimising potential disruptions, whether it’s for daily use with students or making the space flexible for community classes. The physical arrangement of your classroom can significantly impact how effectively students use their devices and collaborate with peers, so start by considering the placement of furniture to support both individual work and group activities. This might mean arranging desks or tables in configurations that allow for easy movement between independent and collaborative work, such as clusters or U-shapes, or managing power sources to keep devices powered throughout the day. Proper lighting is often overlooked but plays a vital role in creating an optimal digital learning environment. Position screens to avoid glare from windows or overhead lights, which can cause eye strain and make it difficult for students to view their devices. By thoughtfully addressing these layout considerations, you can create a classroom environment that supports and enhances digital learning experiences for all students. Understanding storage and underlying systems To effectively manage digital learning, educators must have a solid grasp of the underlying technical aspects that support these systems. This knowledge not only helps teachers troubleshoot common issues but also enables them to guide students in becoming proficient digital learners. A fundamental aspect of this is understanding file formats – introduce students to common formats, explain the purposes of each and when to use each one. This knowledge is crucial for students to effectively create, share, and access digital content moving forward. It’s worth exploring the concept of cloud storage and file sharing too, explaining how platforms like Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive can facilitate collaboration and provide access to files across different devices. This understanding helps students keep their digital work organised and easily accessible. Lastly, teachers need to equip students with basic troubleshooting skills for common technical issues, such as how to clear browser caches, update software, and perform basic device maintenance. These problem-solving skills guide students through the process of identifying issues, researching solutions, and applying fixes for themselves, which aids confidence in using technology and fosters greater independence. Choosing the right digital tools When selecting tools, educators must consider not only the learning objectives and curriculum standards but also issues of equity and access among their student population. Look for tools that align with your teaching strategies and can enhance student engagement and understanding, but also consider the accessibility features of potential tools. For example, you will want to incorporate platforms that offer text-to-speech capabilities, closed captioning, and adjustable font sizes to accommodate students with diverse learning needs. When evaluating digital resources, also consider the learning curve associated with each tool. While some advanced platforms might offer impressive features, they may be too complex for students to navigate effectively, potentially exacerbating existing digital divides. User-friendly interfaces that allow students to focus on content rather than struggling with the technology itself are a better choice. If possible, facilities should prioritise high-quality, free or low-cost options to avoid creating financial barriers to participation. By carefully considering these factors, educators can choose digital tools that not only meet their instructional needs but also promote equitable inclusivity in the digital learning environment. Managing student use and avoiding distractions Managing the use of digital tools is an important aspect of effective digital learning. Students often struggle with maintaining focus, so it’s essential for educators to implement strategies that promote responsible device usage. Start by establishing clear guidelines for when and how devices should be used in the classroom – one way to achieve this is to implement a system of visual cues or signals that indicate when devices should be active, face-down, or put away entirely. Implementing screen time limits and scheduled breaks is another effective strategy. Extended periods of screen time can lead to fatigue and reduced productivity, so incorporate regular breaks where students can rest their eyes and engage in non-digital activities. Additionally, consider using monitoring software or productivity tools that allow you to oversee student activity on devices. While it’s important to balance monitoring with trust and privacy concerns, these tools can be valuable in ensuring students stay on task and use technology appropriately. Teaching digital citizenship and responsible online behaviour is fundamental to managing student use of technology. Incorporate lessons on internet safety, ethical online conduct, the responsible use of AI, and critical evaluation of digital content into your curriculum, to help students understand the potential consequences of their digital actions and the importance of maintaining a positive digital footprint. Embracing flexibility and progress in digital learning The journey toward effective digital learning is ongoing, and it’s important for educators to remain flexible and open to new ideas and technologies as they appear. As you implement these strategies, remember that what works best will vary depending on your specific context, your students’ needs, and their learning objectives, so it’s critical to be prepared to iterate and refine your approach based on feedback and observed outcomes. Remember, the goal is not perfection, but progress. Each step taken towards more effective digital learning is a step towards better preparing our students for their future. The ultimate aim, as always, is to provide the best possible education for your students in our rapidly evolving digital world.
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Liverpool college receives prestigious Chartered Institution for Further Education status
Future Trends in Education: Preparing for Tomorrow’s Classroom
Education is on the brink of a significant transformation, driven by rapid technological advancements and changing societal needs. The future classroom will be vastly different from the traditional setup that many of us are familiar with. As educators, students, and policymakers adapt to these changes, it’s essential to explore the trends that will shape the learning environments of tomorrow. Understanding these trends will not only help in preparing students for future challenges but also ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Embracing Technology in the Classroom One of the most profound shifts in education is the integration of technology within the classroom. The advent of digital learning tools and platforms has revolutionised the way students engage with their studies. In fact, a staggering 80% of students have reported that digital learning technology has directly improved their grades. This significant percentage underscores the pivotal role technology plays in enhancing educational outcomes. Moreover, the financial aspect of educational technology is equally compelling. The global educational technology market is projected to grow to an impressive $377.85 billion by 2028. This growth reflects a broad acceptance and adoption of technology in educational institutions worldwide, from primary schools to universities. Educators are harnessing the power of interactive software, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) to create immersive learning experiences. These tools not only make learning more engaging but also cater to different learning styles, ensuring that all students can benefit from the educational material. For instance, VR can take students on virtual field trips to historical sites, while AR can bring complex scientific concepts to life in the classroom. The Rise of Personalised Learning Personalised learning is another trend that is reshaping education. This approach tailors educational experiences to meet the individual needs, strengths, and interests of each student. By leveraging data and analytics, educators can provide customised learning pathways that ensure every student reaches their full potential. In this context, resources like IGCSE past papers and IGCSE revision notes become invaluable. They offer students the ability to practice and review material at their own pace, ensuring they fully grasp the content before moving on. Moreover, IGCSE resources provide a wealth of information that can be tailored to fit the specific needs of each student, making personalised learning more accessible and effective. The importance of using a variety of IGCSE exam questions and IGCSE papers cannot be overstated. These tools allow students to familiarise themselves with the format and style of the exams, reducing anxiety and improving performance. Personalised learning also extends beyond academics, fostering a holistic development that includes critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. Importance of STEM Education Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is critical in preparing students for the future workforce. As the demand for STEM professionals continues to grow, it is essential that students are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in these fields. STEM education promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity, all of which are essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world. Programs that integrate STEM learning from an early age are becoming increasingly popular. These initiatives often include hands-on projects, coding classes, and robotics competitions, which make learning both fun and practical. By engaging students in STEM activities, educators can ignite a passion for these subjects and inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders. Remote Learning: A New Norm The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered the educational landscape, with remote learning becoming a new norm for many students and educators. Before the pandemic, 23% of school systems had plans to adopt supplemental online courses. This number has since risen to 28%, highlighting a shift towards integrating online learning as a permanent fixture in education. Remote learning offers several advantages, including flexibility and accessibility. As noted by educations.com “Online education enables the teacher and the student to set their own learning pace, and there’s the added flexibility of setting a schedule that fits everyone’s agenda.” This flexibility is particularly beneficial for students with varying learning needs and those who require a more adaptable schedule due to extracurricular commitments or personal circumstances. Despite its benefits, remote learning also presents challenges, such as ensuring equitable access to technology and maintaining student engagement. Addressing these issues is crucial for the successful implementation of remote learning on a broader scale. Integrating AI in Education Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making significant strides in various sectors, and education is no exception. AI has the potential to transform teaching and learning by providing personalised educational experiences, automating administrative tasks, and offering real-time feedback. Dan Schwartz, dean of Stanford Graduate School of Education, aptly puts it, “Technology is a game-changer for education – it offers the prospect of universal access to high-quality learning experiences, and it creates fundamentally new ways of teaching.” AI-driven tools can analyse student performance data to identify areas where they may need additional support, thereby allowing teachers to tailor their instruction more effectively. AI can also help in creating intelligent tutoring systems that provide students with immediate feedback and personalised recommendations. These systems can adapt to each student’s learning style and pace, ensuring a more individualised learning experience. Furthermore, AI can assist in administrative tasks such as grading and scheduling, allowing teachers to focus more on instruction and student interaction. Preparing Students for Future Careers As the job market evolves, it is essential to prepare students for the careers of the future. This involves not only providing them with the technical skills required for specific jobs but also fostering soft skills such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability. These skills are increasingly important in a world where many traditional jobs are being automated or transformed by technology. Career education programs that offer real-world experiences, such as internships and apprenticeships, are invaluable in helping students understand the demands of the workplace. These programs provide students with practical skills and insights that are directly applicable to their future careers. Moreover, global collaboration and exchange programs can broaden students’ perspectives
Education Estates – the UK’s leading learning environment event
150+ Exhibitors | 3000+ Attendees | 150+ Speakers | 700 Awards Guests Education Estates® is an annual forum that brings together the education community: from policy makers and designers to suppliers and educators. Held in partnership with the Department of Education, it is a key resource to gain valuable insight into upcoming policy, be inspired by innovative new projects and derive practical knowledge from experts in the sector. ➢ Learn: a two-day conference over seven themed stages ➢ Explore: an exhibition showcasing some of the most innovative solutions around ➢ Celebrate: an awards ceremony celebrating excellence in the sector Education Estates® is the UK’s leading learning environments event, focussing on the funding, design, build, maintenance and management of schools, colleges and universities. This year is the biggest and best yet, with over 150 exhibitors and the highest ever number of registered attendees. The conference programme has just been released and offers delegates innovative ideas to current challenges, with presentations exploring every facet of the project and experiences from concept through to end user. According to Rebecca Stratten-Nott, the Event Commercial Director, the exhibition will see a 20% increase this year, with names including Morgan Sindall, Lawray Architects, Dulux Decorator Centre, Cundall, eEnergy, Bouyges, InVentry, Morleys, Trend Control Systems, Kawneer, RAM Building Consultancy, Energys Group, Saint-Gobain Ecophon, Kier Construction, Salix Finance, Fusion21, BOYCO UK, Pickerings Hire, James Hardie, SFG20, Fagerhult, Pagabo, Twinfix Canopies & Roof Glazing and Fews Temporary Buildings. Meanwhile, the Awards Shortlist has just been announced. The Education Estates® Awards is a sell-out event every year – a great way to celebrate what’s possible in the sector. New for this year is the Education Estates® Peoples Awards, recognising incredible talent and passion in education – the people behind the projects. Programme Highlights: Following the sell-out Education Estates® SEND and Net Zero conferences earlier this year, the conversation continues at Education Estates®! Highlights include: • Climate adaptive school grounds: a new frontier – Matt Robinson, Learning through Landscapes • Acoustic Design Watchlist – What the Building Bulletins don’t cover! – Emma Greenland, Anderson Acoustics • Building Quality from design to handover – Nick Coke, WT Partnership, Linda Stevens, CIOB & Jo Marchant, The Boxing Academy • Does Design Review Deliver for Education Development? – Matthew Blythin, DHA & Catherine Ward, HLM; Enhancing Higher Education Spaces Through Data-Driven Insights – Becky Hayward, Buro Happold • The integration of academia and community and commercial spaces – Robert Hopkins, AHR & Tim Hosker, University of Huddersfield • Education in the Secure Environment – Dave Clark, Lincolnshire County Council & Lorna Crowther – Managing/Regional Lead Architect, Kier Design When: 15-16 October, 2024 Where: Manchester Central How do I register: Register at: www.educationestates.com Education Estates® is free to attend for the public sector*. Education Estates® 2024 Sponsor Partners: Arcadis, AtkinsRéalis, Clevertronics, Galliford Try, i AM Compliant and TG Escapes modular eco-buildings. *Public sector refers to all those directly employed in schools, colleges, universities, government and local authorities (including governors and independent schools). Delegate rates apply to the private sector. The exhibition is free for all to enter.
Discover the future of education with industry experts at BRILLIANT Festival
