Resources for Study Skills Tutors

As a study skills tutor, your role is pivotal in helping students enhance their learning strategies, manage time effectively, and navigate academic challenges. Below are key resources and tools to support your work:

Learning Styles Assessments

Understanding a student’s preferred learning style can inform personalised study strategies:

• VARK Questionnaire: Identifies learning preferences among Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic modalities.
• Open University Learning Style Activity: A quick and interactive tool that helps students identify their learning preferences, supporting the development of tailored study strategies.

Academic Skills Assessments

Identifying areas where students can improve academically is essential:

• Academic Skills Assessment – Evaluates strengths in time management, study skills, note-taking, persistence, and processing.
• Study Skills Assessment Questionnaire – A comprehensive tool to help students reflect on various academic skills.

Assistive Technology Tools

Incorporating technology can enhance study efficiency:

• Microsoft OneNote: For managing tasks, organising notes, setting reminders and breaking down tasks. Students get access to OneNote through their 365 Account. for more information and alternatives visit the Guide to Microsoft OneNote for Noteaking and Lecture Organisation 
• NotebookLM is an AI-powered research and notetaking tool developed by Google and powered by Gemini AI. It helps users summarise, organise, and interact with their notes more effectively by allowing them to upload documents, ask questions, and generate summaries based on their own content. Designed to enhance learning and productivity, NotebookLM can be particularly useful for students managing large amounts of information, providing AI-driven insights while keeping the focus on their own materials.
• Mind Mapping Tools (e.g., MindView, Coggle, MindMeister): Supports students in organising their thoughts and structuring assignments. MindView is available for QUB students through the Student Desktop. Visit the Guide to Mind Mapping for Organisation and Planning.
• Immersive Readers: Built-in tools in Microsoft (Word, OneNote, Edge), Google (Docs), Apple (iOS and macOS), and PDF Reader in Microsoft Edge that support reading with features like text-to-speech which can help improve focus.
• Pomodoro Timers (e.g., Focus Keeper): Assist with time management by encouraging focused work intervals with breaks.
• Neurodiversity Free Assistive Technology Recommendations: A helpful guide on the Assistive Technology blog offering recommendations for free tools designed to support neurodiverse students.
• Study Skills Booklet: Offers suggested AT and software that caters to diverse learning needs, including planning and revision strategies.
• DSA-Funded Software: Students eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) may have access to specialised software such as Read&Write, ClaroRead, MindView, Dragon NaturallySpeaking, and more. This resource provides comprehensive information on DSA-funded products, application processes, and available support at QUB.

• QUB Transition Skills Resources:
  • LDS Transition Skills for University: Offers guidance on managing the shift to university life, study strategies, and resilience-building, with practical tips on academic and personal development.
  • E-learning Transition Skills: Provides online modules designed to help students develop essential academic skills.

Although these Canvas modules are accessed directly by students, they can be valuable exercises to work through together during tutoring sessions.

Stress and Anxiety Management

Helping students manage stress is vital:

• Headspace: An AI-powered mental health chatbot that offers support for stress management and emotional wellbeing.
• Forest App: Encourages focus and reduces phone distractions, promoting productivity and mindfulness.

Professional Development Resources for Tutors

• Session Planning Guide for Support Providers: Provides practical advice on structuring and planning effective support sessions with students, ensuring a consistent and impactful approach.
• SMART Goal Setting Guide for Academic Mentoring: Learn effective goal-setting strategies to support student success.
• Discover Your AT: A handy resource for staff and students to explore assistive technology options, enhancing their understanding of available tools to support learning and accessibility.
• QUB AI Hub: A fantastic resource for both staff and students to explore AI-powered tools for accessible content creation and learning..
• QUB Digi Hub: An invaluable space for staff and students to discover digital resources and support for innovative teaching and learning.

Wellbeing and Mental Health Support

• QUB Student Wellbeing Service: First point of contact for students needing mental health support beyond academic tutoring.
• QUB Inspire Counselling Service: 24/7 Student Helpline. All students at the University can contact Inspire’s Student Helpline, which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The number is 0808 800 0016 (24hr Freephone)

Practical Tips for Tutors

• Set Clear Expectations: Use visual aids and written instructions to complement verbal explanations.
• Break Down Tasks: Chunk assignments into smaller, manageable parts to reduce overwhelm.
• Routine and Consistency: Establish regular meeting times and structured sessions to create a predictable environment.
• Flexible Communication: Some students may prefer written communication over verbal. Adapt to their preferred style where possible.

Support Channels

• Assistive Technology Teams Channel: Join for real-time support, updates, and discussions.
• ALS Info Hub: Access the latest resources, events, and student support opportunities for Accessible Learning registered students.
• For more information on providing support to students, please visit the Register of Support Providers at QUB.
• For more information and guidance on supporting students with assistive technology, please contact the Assistive Technology Coordinator.