Written by Chelsea Wallace
For many, the prospect of facing a qualification that requires written assessment and assignments fills them with that sinking feeling… “Where do I start?”….. so why not take part in our Study Skills Workshop?
It may have been years since their last formal education, and the thought of producing written assignments can trigger anxiety and self-doubt. This is such a common experience, and it’s something I’ve seen happen first-hand when I’ve been assessing apprenticeships and lecturing in colleges.
I’ve witnessed some of the most skilled and passionate healthcare professionals avoid enrolling onto courses due to a fear of getting it wrong or not knowing what to do. Many of our most talented workforce underestimate themselves and believe that having a lack of academic experience will hinder their progress. It’s a frustrating reality that genuinely talented individuals are missing out on opportunities to develop their careers because of their own self-doubt.
To address this issue, I created an introductory Study Skills workshop, focused on academic writing for beginners. It’s been designed to demystify the academic process and equip learners with the essential tools and confidence to succeed.
By identifying and addressing the common anxieties and questions I’ve seen and heard throughout my career, our Study Skills workshop aims to create a positive and supportive learning environment. Learners leave the workshop with the knowledge that they are not alone, with a solid foundation in academic writing, and an understanding of key concepts such as:
- Different assessment methods: Learners will discover that their knowledge can be expressed in various ways… yes you can verbally speak your answers!
- Command verbs: The workshop will clarify the meaning of different command verbs used in assignments, helping learners to answer the questions effectively.
- Plagiarism and referencing: Participants will learn how to avoid plagiarism and cite sources correctly, including guidance on the appropriate use of AI tools… we know that learners will use AI so let’s embrace it!
- Credible sources: The workshop will provide insights into identifying reliable information and using it effectively not only in academic writing, but in daily life.
- Academic writing tips: Participants will receive practical advice on writing styles, structure, and clarity.
- Feedback: The workshop will explain the feedback process, empowering learners to understand and benefit from the assessment process.
Ultimately, our Study Skills workshop aims to boost learners’ confidence and motivation. By providing a clear roadmap to academic success, we hope to reduce resubmissions and create a more positive learning experience. With a strong foundation in place, participants will be better equipped to progress towards their career goals and exceed their own expectations.
It’s time to break down the barriers to academic achievement for healthcare professionals. By investing in their writing skills, we can empower them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to our amazing sector.