UK Study methods

You may find that teaching methods in the UK differ from your home country and so it may take some time for you to adjust to studying in the UK.  Whilst the teaching methods used and the skills you will need to develop in order to be successful will vary, depending upon the subject you study and the type of institution, there are a number of common learning styles that you may notice in the UK.  Attending Study Skills classes may help you to better understand what is required.

UK students are used to studying on their own for significant periods of time.  Independent study not only helps students to develop their research skills, but also encourages the development of critical analysis skills so that students can learn to express their own ideas and opinions on a particular topic.  Developing your own opinion and being able to understand the different arguments is also encouraged via the use of seminars.  These are smaller classes where students and a tutor discuss a topic.

As well as written assignments and examinations, during your studies you may be asked to undertake a piece of work jointly with other students.  Group work is designed to promote team-working skills.