How is university learning different from school?
Find out more about the variety of learning experiences at university, and how they might be different to your previous educational experiences
By the time you decide to apply to the University of Plymouth, it’s likely that you will have spent many years in a formal education setting.
You'll be comfortable within the school, college or sixth form learning environment and looking forward to university as the next step.
While you may well be excited by the prospect of university, it's also natural to feel nervous about the challenges ahead. Going to university can be a big change so it’s good to be aware of all the things that make it different from school, that way you can think ahead and be prepared – both of which will make the transition a lot easier.
To help you get to grips with what to expect (and what is expected of you) we've pulled together some of the key differences in the way that learning takes place at university. We hope this will help you to feel prepared as you learn how to learn and progress as a university student.
We've based this article on the common experiences of many pupils and students that pass through the UKs education system. While we recognise that educational experiences are varied, both within and outside of the UK, we hope that some of the key points will resonate and help you to prepare for learning with is.
Learning is a journey and university is just another step
Primary and secondary school
At school you have very little choice about what you study or how. Your week is based around a structured timetable and the curriculum is broad and focused on developing basic skills.
Sixth form or college
The sixth form or college environment provides you with a little more freedom and encourages you to take a bit more responsibility for your learning. You study fewer subjects in greater depth and focus on those that match your interests.
University
University gives you the opportunity to focus on a subject of your choosing. You will study in much greater depth but there will be less formal teaching and the expectation is that you will take responsibility for your learning.
Studying at university requires independence
When you join the University of Plymouth you are welcomed as an independent adult.
It is up to you to keep track of your time, plan your workload to meet deadlines, and generally motivate yourself to do what needs to be done.
This is often referred to as 'independent', ‘active’ or ‘self-directed’ learning.
Self-directed learning requires students to take ownership of their own learning process − identifying learning needs and learning goals, selecting strategies and evaluating learning outcomes.
Times Higher Education
But this doesn’t mean that you’re left on your own
Peer-Assisted Learning Scheme (PALS)
Regular study sessions for students run by students
Writing support and academic skills
Teaching sessions tailored to your needs and discipline in a way you can understand.
How the library can support your study needs
Helping you to get the most out of your library.
A big part of university is learning to learn
We don’t expect students to have already figured this out before starting their course.
You’re not just at university to learn about your subject, you are also learning how to learn and work more effectively.
We want our students to come out with new skills and feel more independent, confident and resilient, and although you are ultimately responsible for your learning this doesn't mean you are on your own.
Every student is assigned a personal tutor for academic and personal support, and we offer a wealth of additional academic and personal support services.
The biggest shock I found when coming to university is that you are responsible for attending lectures and tutorials. Once you have your timetable it’s up to you to be organised and punctual...There were times when I felt like things were getting on top of me. I went to see my tutor who was really helpful and honest. They helped me to re-focus my workload and guide me through the areas where I was struggling.