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Try ‘Smart Start’ workshops

WINNIPEG, MB – Need tips on note-taking? Using the library? Managing your time? The “Smart Start” workshop series offers tips on how you can improve your study skills and succeed in University-level courses. In nine workshops, instructor Elizabeth Challis will cover a variety of topics. See below for details.

“Smart Start” – A Study Skills Workshop Series

Sept. 21 – Nov. 23, 2009

Mondays & Wednesdays, 12:30 – 1:20 p.m.

Room 1L04

Need tips on note-taking? Using the library? Managing your time? The “Smart Start” workshop series offers tips on how you can improve your study skills and succeed in University-level courses. In nine workshops, instructor Elizabeth Challis will cover a variety of topics. See below for details.

All workshops are offered FREE of charge, but space is limited, so students must register in advance. Call 786-9863 or email a.weir@uwinnipeg.ca.

Start the year by developing better study skills – it’s the smart thing to do!

Workshop Topics

All workshops are held 12:30 to 1:20 p.m. in Room 1L04, Lockhart Hall.

The series is organized by the Department of Counselling and Career Services at The University of Winnipeg.

1. Goal Setting and Time Management: Mon, Sept 21/09

Going to class, doing readings and assignments, studying for tests and exams, working, spending time with friends and family, playing sports, working out…how do you find time to do it all? This workshop will give you the opportunity to reflect on the attitudes you bring to your learning environment and how they impact on your goals and time management. Specific strategies for setting short, medium and long-terms goals will be discussed and concrete ideas for managing your time optimally will be presented.

2. Using the Library: Wed, Sept 23/09

Knowing how to use the library effectively is important during your university studies. This workshop will discuss how you can use it to your advantage and how you can become “information literate”.

3. Note-taking Techniques: Mon, Sept 28/09

Good notes contribute to your overall success as a student. This workshop presents strategies for taking notes during lectures and while reading that will result in clear, concise, and meaningful notes which you can use for review and for research purposes.

4. Reading Strategies: Wed, Oct 7/09

Does reading make you sleepy? Do you spend a lot of time reading or re-reading without really knowing what you’ve read? This workshop will provide you with an easy-to-use reading technique that will help you read more effectively.

5. Critical Thinking Skills and Research-based Analysis: Wed, Oct 14/09

Critical thinking underlies all aspects of your university studies; it is essential to your success as a student. This workshop outlines the attitudes of a critical thinker and ways in which you can read, write, speak, and listen more effectively to become a critical thinker.

6. Oral Communication and Class Participation: Mon., Oct 19/09

Participating in class, as an individual or as part of a group, helps you get the most out of your course. But many students find it difficult to voice their opinions and contribute to a class discussion or to participate effectively in group presentations. This workshop will introduce students to strategies that will help them overcome their reluctance to be active participants in the class.

7. Essay Writing: The Basics Wed, Oct 21/09

This workshop will present the basic elements and steps required to ensure you have a well-written academic paper. The writing process – from brainstorming to editing, organization, and the use of citations will be discussed.

8. Memory and Test-taking Strategies: Mon, Oct 26/09

Don’t like taking tests? Don’t do well on them? This workshop will help you develop a more positive attitude towards taking tests and exams and will provide simple techniques to help you prepare for tests and exams.

9. Dealing with Exam Anxiety: Mon. Nov 23/09

Many students experience anxiety related to taking exams which can result in marks that don’t reflect their knowledge and ability. Some students become overwhelmed with negative thoughts and emotions. This workshop will present ways to help you become aware of those thoughts and emotions as well as how to manage them so they do not interfere with your ability to do well on tests and exams.