March 31, 2023, by Helen Whitehead

Roadworks on the learning journey: advice for students

As anyone who drives onto University Park campus from the North knows, earlier this year we had to navigate some serious roadworks on the A52, the main road across the north side of the University campus. These roadworks were extensively signalled in advance, and were due to gasworks. The closure of the road in a westward direction went on for about three months and we weren’t very confident about what the effects could be for our commutes. In the end, it wasn’t so bad.

The road closure and uncertainty reminds me that in that overused metaphor of a “learning journey” students often also face obstacles and challenges. Students may encounter concepts and topics that are more confusing or difficult than they expect. They may not know where to access support from teachers or peers, or personal circumstances might make it hard to stay on track.

Students, like their lecturers in their cars, may have to find alternative routes to reach their destination. They could need to adapt their approach to learning in order to overcome these kinds of obstacles. Every learner needs to have a plan in mind, but also be prepared for unexpected difficulties and obstacles. They need to have the ability to adapt, to change direction and to find the best route through their learning that works for them. Learners vary in their ability to plan. Some have a vague idea of what to do, and others have multiple apps on their phones or elaborate colour-coded schedules and maps.

Adapting the approach to learning

Whatever type of plans they’ve made, the student may need to adapt their approach to learning if the current one isn’t working for them.

1. Identify the problem: Before making any changes, reflect on what might be causing the difficulty. Is it a struggle to understand the material? Is it difficulty staying focused? Are there personal distractions? Once the student has identified the problem, they can start to come up with solutions.
2. Try different study methods: Different students learn in different ways. Some students prefer visual aids, while others prefer hands-on activities. It’s a good idea to experiment to find the approach that works best for them. These learning strategies could include using flashcards, drawing mindmaps, creating mnemonic devices, practice using quizzes, or teaching someone else. These methods that can help students to review and retain the material.
3. Get help and support: Everyone occasionally gets stuck on a specific concept or topic. Students should never be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s from a lecturer, a seminar tutor, or a peer. Setting up or joining a study group can also be a great way to stay motivated and on track with the material.
4. Take breaks and look after yourself: When studying it’s important to take breaks and give their mind time to rest, especially if feeling overwhelmed. We all need to engage in activities that we enjoy and prioritize our own self-care. It’s important to get enough sleep and exercise and to maintain a healthy diet, as these can have a positive impact on overall well-being and learning.
5. Reflect and tweak: Whilst keeping track of progress it’s good to reflect on what works and what doesn’t. This allows the learner to adjust their approach if they see that the plan isn’t working. No-one should be afraid to make changes. It may take some experimentation, but with persistence and a willingness to adapt, most learners can find a learning approach that works.

Everyone learns differently, and maybe we need to be reminded that it’s OK to try different strategies to find what works best. At different stages of education and types of learning, any approach might need to be adapted. With a positive attitude and a willingness to experiment, it’s possible to overcome any problems and challenges to become a more successful learner.  In the end, it’s not so bad.

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