Studying Arts and Humanities Book

Introduction viii

1 Adjusting to University Life 1

Introduction 1

On your way 1

Orientation 3

Around campus 3

Making friends 4

Freshers' Week 5

Socialising 6

Homesickness 6

Finances, fees and loans 6

Managing on a budget 7

Sorting out the paperwork 10

What will study be like? The 6 hours trap 11

Organising a timetable 12

Planning for time off and relaxation 15

Personal tutoring 15

Changing modules and programmes 16

Student support services 16

Summary 17

2 Becoming a University Student 18

Introduction 18

Developing effective study habits 18

Accessing information 23

The library holds more than books! 25

Why use journals? 26

Using the internet for research 29

Making the most of your contact time 33

Summary 41

3 Effective Reading: A Vital Part of the Writing Process 42

Introduction to reading at university 42

What kind of texts will I be reading? 43

Coping with module reading lists 46

Reading as part of the writing process 48

Incorporating reading into your study schedule 49

Top tips for keeping on top of your reading 49

Reading strategies 51

Reading process 51

Reading creative and visual texts - how to develop your own interpretation 62

Summary 64

4 Written Assignments 1: What is Expected of You? 65

Introduction 65

Alternatives to essays 66

What makes a good essay? 69

What are different essay questions asking for? 70

Defining your terms 73

Writing clearly in an academic style 78

Developing your critical voice 82

Summary 90

5 Written Assignments 2: How to Approach your Essay 91

Introduction 91

The art of drafting 91

Developing an argument 94

Building up your argument paragraphby paragraph 95

Introductions and conclusions 98

Using quotations effectively 109

Avoiding plagiarism 111

Proofreading 115

Dissertations and longer projects 116

Specific writing difficulties 123

Getting started - severe procrastination 124

Understanding the question 125

Planning and structuring work 125

Expressing yourself clearly 126

Summary 134

6 Preparing For and Taking Examinations 135

Introduction 135

Active revision: keeping your mind alert 137

Cumulative revision: a culmination of your learning throughout the semester 145

Non-essay exams - some guidelines 150

The exam itself 153

Summary 158

7 Life after University 159

Introduction 159

Who are you, and what do you want? 159

You are distinctive 160

What can you do with an arts degree? 161

Intellectual skills 163

Communication skills 165

Interpersonal skills 169

Organisational skills 169

Research skills 172

Numeracy 172

Commercial awareness 173

Summary of skills - analysing your portfolio 174

Filling in the skills gaps 174

Articulating your talents 176

Further study 180

Travel and time out 180

Searching for a job, finding a career 181

Resources 182

Summary 183

Feedback 184

Index 193