Study Tools for All

Session 3: Reading and proofreading

This webinar will be focussed on using text-to-speech tools, such as ClaroRead Plus, to make reading/ proofreading both quicker and more efficient.

We will explore how text-to-speech tools can be used to read aloud books, chapters, journals and web pages, using a variety of different voices. We will also practice turning audio into MP3 files, to facilitate listening on the go, which can be a great way of combating fatigue when working through the set reading lists. We will also explore how these tools can be used to polish written work, hearing an essay read out loud can highlight missing words, errors, and lack of clarity.

Session 4: Note-taking

This webinar is focused on how technology can be used to improve the speed, accuracy and usefulness of note-taking.

We will be discussing a number of solutions that are available to you, looking at how they can be implemented within both the Microsoft 365 suite and your own study style and note-taking habits. In particular, we will be looking at Audio Notetaker, a note-taking solution that gives you the ability to record, make typed notes, add drawings, and take photos on the go. We will then look at how this information can be viewed, condensed and absorbed to make revision less daunting.

Session 5: Presenting

In this webinar, we will discuss presenting and how you can use technology to boost your presentation skills, both in terms of how you deliver information but also how it is displayed to your audience.

Microsoft Powerpoint has been used for years and yet many still aren’t fully aware of all it’s hidden tips and tricks and likewise, Google Slides is becoming ever more popular with students who want to work collaboratively. In this webinar, we will look at both of these solutions and how they can be used to create and deliver interesting and informative presentations.

With study and working life moving ever further online, we will also use this webinar to discuss how best to use this technology alongside Microsoft Teams to deliver effective online presentations.

Session 6: Research and referencing

In this webinar, we will look at strategies to improve your ability to research and reference, this includes both in-built Microsoft 365 tools and specific software designed to make these tasks quicker and more accurate.

In particular, we will look at the referencing tool Zotero. This program allows students to create citations and bibliographies in a quick and simple way. Zotero also enables you to collect referencing details from books, journals and web pages just by clicking a button in the web browser. You can then choose from hundreds of different referencing styles, eliminating stress over formatting and stylisation.

Session 7: Revision

In this webinar, we will look at how technology can be used to better revise ahead of exams. From organising and displaying notes, to creating methods to better learn and memorise ideas, technology can be adapted not to replace, but to enhance your ability to revise.

In particular, we will look at how you can use Microsoft 365 along with mind mapping solutions, text-to-speech software and quiz apps to create multisensory study and revision strategies.

Session 8: Procrastination

In this webinar, we will cover how to use technology to stay focused while studying remotely. Avoiding distraction and creating an effective study space in your home can be a challenge. However, there are strategies and solutions that can be put in place to better organise your work and study flow.

In particular, we will:

• Discuss ideas to create better work/life separation while working at home to make it easier to work and also rest and relax
• Consider strategies to create an effective computer desktop workspace, including file/cloud management and screen/font colour, size and brightness
• Encourage the importance of timetabling for self-study and use of task-based time planning to prioritise correctly