The Christmas break is the perfect time to squeeze in some extra study – OU Student Association rep, Sarah talks us through her top tips for getting the most out of your holiday, whilst still enjoying the festivities.
Work in chunks
When you’ve set aside a morning, an afternoon, or an evening to work solidly for a few hours, you might find it helpful to study for bite-sized chunks of time. Why not try working in 25 minute blocks, and then stop and take a few minutes for a break (mince pies and mulled wine permitted). Check over what you’ve read and made notes on, and then onto the next 25 minutes!
Use the feedback from your tutor
Feedback from your tutor on your first assignment should be arriving with you imminently. This advice is crucial to your success, so make sure you read both the returned assignment and the tutor’s report, which will be called ‘Assessment Summary’ or ‘PT3’.
Some people find it difficult to focus on the next study topic when waiting for the result of their last assignment. If you find you’re distracted, practice some mindfulness by clearing your thoughts and putting your worries to the back of your mind – the result is out of your control, but you can determine the outcome of future assignments. The more you work through each module, the greater your knowledge will become.
Don’t forget about tutorials
Hopefully you’ve managed to attend at least one of your tutorials, but if not, check out the online alternatives that are available. You’ll be able to find these listed behind the ‘Tutorials and study events’ link on your Student Home page.
You’ll have online tutorials coming up in the New Year, so it’s good practice to go online and find your way round the tutorial room. Follow the instructions and if you get into difficulties, contact the Computing Help Desk and they’ll be happy to help.
Getting support
If you’re struggling and are feeling overwhelmed, have a look at the Help Centre on Student Home or the Support and Resources page.
Don’t miss the section on Wellbeing and Mindfulness. It contains resources and tools that can help maximise your general health and emotional resilience.
The OU Students Association also has a list of resources that you might find helpful.
