Achieving Academic Success

Three keys to academic success

Now that we’ve provided you with some useful tools and resources to help you stay on the ball, let’s explore what you can do as an individual to achieve academic success.

Manage your time

  • Use a diary or calendar to manage your goals day-to-day, weekly, and over the course of the semester. Schedule your study time. Access the UON Semester Planner to help you plan your semester.
  • Stay on top of your weekly workload. Set aside blocks of time to actively engage with your course content, including posting regularly in the discussion. Speaking to peers and your tutors online will help you grasp difficult content.
  • Stay focused. We understand life can be busy, with many commitments, but the expectation is University study should be prioritised over other activities until you adjust. If you’re studying full-time, it’s a similar commitment to a full-time job.
  • Set up a dedicated study space at home.

Be proactive

  • Take responsibility for your learning. Don’t leave all your tasks until the last minute. Your tutors are here to support you and it’s easier for them to help you if you ask them any questions well before crunch time.
  • Ask for help when you need it. Post a question to your peers on Canvas or email your tutor.
  • Be sure to ask questions to make sure you understand what you’re learning.
  • Look for opportunities to extend your learning.

Set up a support network

  • Engage in discussion with your peers online. Having friends in your course or degree can help you succeed.
  • Get to know your tutors and course coordinators - they’re a valuable source of support and guidance.
  • Know where to get support. If in doubt, Student Central can point you in the right direction.

What makes a successful Online Learner

Some of the takeaway points are:

  • Recognise that it takes time to do well in a course and develop good study routines.
  • Bring yourself into the online learning space. Introduce yourself and acknowledge the others in your course.
  • Find strategies to manage stresses and reach out for help when you need it. If you feel like you’re falling behind, contact your tutor or course coordinator. They’re here to help support you to achieve your best.