Refresh your study routine for back to school
As summer comes to a close, it’s the perfect time for a fresh start on your study routine
Although Athabasca University (AU) has monthly start dates, the closing of summer acts as an unofficial start to the new school year for many of our students who took a well-deserved break, or for those who are just discovering online learning. This is a great opportunity for university students to reset and refocus.
With new academic goals and a fresh perspective, it’s time to balance studies with the excitement of outdoor activities and social commitments.
To help you get started, we’re sharing valuable resources and tips from AU learning experts to help you “refresh” your study routine for the year ahead.
1. Enhance your learning with the library’s resources
As an AU student, you have access to help from library staff, resources, and vital units such as the Write Site that can help you perform at your best. Getting oriented with the library is a great first step!
The AU library has an incredible collection of printed books for physical mailing and ebooks that are accessible online. You can also access millions of articles through more than 250 databases.
Additionally, borrowing privileges extend to materials from the Alberta Library and Council of Prairie and Pacific University Libraries. Explore more about accessing materials from other Canadian libraries and interlibrary loans.
2. Craft your research strategy
Need help finding articles or crafting a search strategy? Whether you’re struggling to find the right article, unsure where to start your search, or need help developing a strategy from scratch, AU reference librarians are here to help you every step of the way. Contact them via live chat, phone, email, or video call for assistance.
3. Improve your writing with the Write Site
The Write Site helps students improve their academic writing. With support from writing coaches, you can ask questions about writing and receive feedback. The Write Site also provides great tips on paraphrasing, avoiding excessive citation, proofreading, and an explainer on how to use commas.
Wanting a bit more? The Write Site has also recorded all of their webinars and are available on our YouTube channel! The webinars include insight on the advantages of returning to university as online learner, tips on how to apply for scholarships, and a four-step guide on how to take a paper from idea to the finished product.
4. Improve your study techniques
Improving your study techniques can help balance your learning strategy, making it more efficient and effective. By learning strategies such as effective textbook reading methods and establishing study routines, students can enhance their experience.
To be effective and successful in online studies, students should develop techniques and practice them. AU’s support services offer a selection of helpful resources for getting the most out of course textbooks, research skills, and even ideas for maximizing studies as a parent. They also offer various tools for minimizing exam anxiety, building strong study habits, and writing for university.
Support services can help you craft a personalized routine and implement strategies that will help you succeed. Need more? Contact Support Services with questions that will help you improve your learning skills!
5. Stick to a schedule to find balance
Many AU students work full time and have busy lives. Balancing those responsibilities with studies is challenging. Tactics like creating a study schedule can maximize efficiency, avoid procrastination, and keep you organized.
“We always encourage students to try to find a balance by using planning and self-organization techniques,” said Nikki Pawlitschek, an AU counsellor in the Support Services unit. “You need to ask yourself the question: ‘What’s the most important thing to focus on right now?’”
6. Access mental health resources 24/7
Making your mental health a priority has cascading effects on your life, including academic studies.
“Maintaining mind, body, and spirit contributes to good mental health and your ability to participate freely in the things you enjoy,” said AU counsellor Dr. Connie Covey and Melissa Watkins, mental health coordinator, both with the Mental Health and Wellness team. “It also helps you cope with life challenges, and fulfill your potential—ideally while making a positive contribution to the world around you.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. To learn more visit the AU Mental Health and Wellness page, which includes a helpful list of external resources.
If you’re a student at AU, our dedicated professionals are here to help. Contact AU the Mental Health and Wellness unit.
7. Get personalized academic advice
Take advantage of AU’s academic advising unit to discuss your course load, academic goals, and strategies for success. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you navigate challenges and make informed decisions about your studies.
8. Tap into learning accommodations and supports
Everyone’s routine and learning needs are different. AU is committed to providing reasonable, individualized accommodations and support services for students with disabilities so they can complete their programs and courses successfully.
“AU provides equitable education experiences for students with disabilities. And this can be disabilities that are permanent, sensory, functional, or psychiatric,” said Carrie Anton, Accessibility Services coordinator. The appropriate accommodations for studies can reduce barriers students may encounter on their educational journey at AU.
Wherever you live and whatever your goals are, the Accessibility Services team works to make AU, its courses, and its programs accessible for students with disabilities, including arranging for appropriate accommodations in your courses. Contact Accessibility Services if you have any questions!
