Dr Nicole Graham shares her top tips for preparing to start studying new modules at the Department of Religious Studies.
Factor in relaxation time
It is important to make time for some relaxation so that you feel refreshed and ready for study. Schedule in things that help you to relax in the same way you may schedule your study. Taking time to schedule in a walk, watch a film, listen to a podcast or do something creative, will make you more likely to do it!
Get organised
As well as stocking up on stationery and essentials like pens, notebooks, sticky notes etc., don’t forget about your technology. Remember there are online tools that are free and available to help you with your productivity across a range of areas, from time management to wellbeing and more in between. The University of Kent has a great list of apps that offer different ways to study.
Plan your time
Most modules will give you an estimate of how many hours you need to study each week. Use the estimate as a guide to plan your study time and assess whether you need more or less time than advised. Enter the dates of assignment deadlines into your calendar (online/physical), and then make sure you organise personal commitments around those. Forming a study group with friends can also be a great way to brainstorm ideas and understand different perspectives as well as helping to keep you on track throughout the module.
Look at new resources
Start with the reading list (which will outline the core texts for the module and tell you what you need to read and when) and resources on the related Moodle module site, so that you can familiarise yourself with essential resources. The Religious Studies library resource guide is a great place to find out what are the best resources to use for the discipline.
Refresh your research skills
Research skills are essential for independent study and getting the most out of the wealth of resources that are available. The Library Research Skills Moodle module (DP3000) covers key library research skills to support your studies and employability. You can work your way through the whole module or select sections depending on the skills you need to develop.
Prepare to keep good records
It is important to keep a good record of all the information sources you use. Reference Management Tools such as RefWorks, Mendeley or Zotero can help you do this. Information including interactive tools and guidance are available and signposted from the ‘Managing your references’ section of the Religious Studies Library resource guide.
Enjoy yourself
Being prepared means you are much more likely to feel relaxed and able to engage with and enjoy the module content.
Don’t forget, you can always contact your dedicated Liaison Librarian for Religious Studies for more library support: Emma Mires-Richards (e.l.mires-richards@kent.ac.uk).