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Managing study: Mature students

Tips on how to study smarter, not harder, based on research and experience

The guide covers some common concerns mature students have and some effective solutions.

Tips for mature students

Mature students tend to be very motivated and usually perform as well or better than other students. Although you may be anxious at first, remember that you are bringing knowledge and experience to your learning journey and over time you will gain confidence. Mature students must juggle a range of roles and activities such as being a parent or working while they study to support their family... 

 Success in study is achieved through a balance between study and your other responsibilities. 

Common concerns...

Do you have any unease about your study?

I’m worried about... 

Possible solutions 

Balancing study,
family and work 

Make a plan: 

  • Make a weekly timetable (classes, study times, work and family activities)
  • Ask for help: Talk with family and friends about what you are doing – get their support
  • Communicate regularly with your tutor – ask questions – ask for an extension if needed

Everyone being
younger than me                         

Share your experience: 

  • You bring valuable perspective to classes
  • Your classes will tend to be practical – your work and life experience will be valuable to your classmates
  • Be confident in sharing it!

My ability to study
and succeed 

Don’t worry: 

  • Your skills will grow over the term
  • Use tutor feedback to build skills
  • You will see progress over the year

Get support to build your skills: 

  • See a learning advisor or go to a study skills workshop

Work with others: 

  • Find a classmate or group and form a study group

The cost of
studying  

Keep a budget: 

  • Work out your weekly costs and keep track of your expenses. Use sorted.org.nz to make a financial plan.

Know your options: 

  • Check out the StudyLink website or talk to our Finance Advisor about: student loans, allowances and scholarships.

 

                                                                                                Image credit: Rae, S. (2017, October 11). You got this [Photograph]. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/geM5lzDj4Iw

 

Image credit: WOCinTech Chat. (2019, November 12). Women in tech [Photograph]. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/50TkCaP8M3A 

Tips for getting organised

Use a timetable to manage your responsibilities. Identify the best times for you to study. Use colour to fill in:

· Class times from your course timetable

· Study time outside class

· Assignment due dates

· Exams and tests

· Mealtimes, bedtimes, travel times

· Regular social and sporting commitments

· Work and home tasks

Use a year wall planner too -- make sure they match -- see all your classes' tasks in one place

      Phone reminders are a good idea too
 

Practical tips for adult learners by City University of New York School of Professional Studies

Resources

Balancing your time -- advice from the University of Otago Higher Education Development Centre                                             

Image credit: Possessed Photography. (2019, September 8). Rerouting [Photograph]. Unsplash. https://unsplash.com/photos/0La7MwJhSyo