Developing your skills for study
Returning to study can be daunting for many people, but if you need to develop your basic skills or study skills, there’s plenty of help available.
The skills you need for study
Although the exact skills you require depend on the course (e.g. for science you need maths) there are a number of skills that are needed no matter what subject you study.
Reading and writing
Academic reading and writing is different from the reading and writing you will have done at school or work. Academic reading requires you to get specific information from texts and then use this in your writing to discuss issues, and develop arguments and ideas.
Along with your academic reading and writing skills, you will need to be able to reference correctly – you can find examples of how to cite references here. Your course information will include full details on what is expected of you.
The Improve your skills section of Lifepilot has information to get you started.
Research skills
You will need to be able to find and access information both in print form and electronically. Your university or college will usually provide information and guidance on this as part of your induction. You will be shown how to use the library and how to access the resources you need for your course.
Thinking skills
Higher education courses require you to start thinking in new ways. You will be presented with new knowledge and ideas and will be encouraged to explore your own thoughts. You will be asked to be critical, to evaluate and to analyse. Find out more about thinking skills here.
Communication/interpersonal skills
To get the most from your studies, you will need to develop your communication and interpersonal skills including giving presentations to your peers and tutors, and working effectively in groups.
Planning and time management skills
You will need to be able to manage your workload and your time – especially if you are juggling working with studying part time and/or have family/caring responsibilities. You can find lots of tips on time management online.
Skillsbuilder Framework
In the Improve Your Skills Section of Lifepilot we have also included some generic skills that are essential for education and work and are closely aligned to the Skillsbuilder framework. Lifepilot has come an offical impact partner with Skillsbuilder and has been recognised for promoting essential skills.
Before you start a higher education level course
If you feel you need to develop your skills, there are various activities to help in the Improve your skills section of Lifepilot; you can also find advice in the Starting with few qualifications section. Support with your basic and study skills etc is also available through:
- The Open University website
- look at the The Good Study Guide from The Open University
- free online courses to help with your study skills or in subjects that relate to your course (this will not only build your knowledge but will look good on your application to higher education)
- the Skills Health Check from the National Careers Service – has quizzes and activities to help you explore your current skills.
When you are on a higher education level course
Universities and colleges are keen to offer study skills support to their students. They have specially trained study skills/student advisers to help students with their study skills, e.g. to write essays and prepare for exams. They also offer short courses to help with particular skills. Search the website of the university or college where you intend to study to find out what support they provide.
As you work through your course you’re likely to get better at academic reading and writing, and other skills, and of course, your tutors will support you in this with feedback and advice.