The Essential Handbook For Mature Students

Starting a new programme of learning can be a daunting undertaking, especially if there has been any length of time since your last period of education. Skills such as revising and note taking may not have been used since full time education in childhood. Decisions will have to be made with the countless subject choices, institutions and course structures. The mature student often also has to consider other complications such as work and family commitments, as well as managing other difficulties like finances and time management. This guide covers all these topics and more as it guides the reader through the very first choices of study, preparing for exams, completing their course and beyond.

A practical guide allowing mature students to build on their strengths and overcome challenges. Includes worked examples, exercises and space for recording strategies and successes. Covers areas such as lectures, seminars, reading and note-taking, presentations, writing, exams, time management, finance and careers.

Studying as an adult is very different to your school experience. This book will give you the skills and confidence you need when returning to education as a mature student.' You have decided to return to education, and now you may be worried that your study skills are not up to scratch. This inspiring and practical book has been written especially for you - whether you are considering a full-time course, part-time studies, evening classes or distance learning such as an Open University degree. It covers everything you need to know to succeed in your chosen course, including how to: discover your learning style; improve your reading seed and memory; take notes and get organised; improve your writing and mathematical skills; master research techniques; develop analytical skills; and, gain marks in exams.

Are you considering changing jobs but require a new skill or qualification? Would you like a new challenge or a sense of personal achievement? Have you considered higher education, but weren't sure how to make that first step into it? If so, then this is the ideal book for you. The Mature Student's Guide to Higher Education tells you everything you need to know if you are thinking about returning to education as a mature student. It discusses a wide range of issues including what higher education involves, how you should prepare for it and how to balance your time and cheque book once you get there. This book will explain practical issues, as well as addressing your doubts and fears about higher education as a life choice. The book: Helps you understand the different routes into higher education Explains the mysteries behind admissions procedures Encourages you to develop a new range of skills, building on the skills you already have Gives you guidance on how to manage change, time and family commitments Helps you overcome barriers like a lack of motivation or confidence Expertly guides you through the systems of fees, showing the loans and financial help that are available The Mature Student's Guide to Higher Education provides the most accessible and up-to-date help on how to make an informed decision about when, where and how to start a suitable higher education course as a mature student - and the career path that might follow.

Through its use of conversational and supportive tones, this popular guide puts readers at ease, assisting the transition to academic study. With clear explanations, summaries and exercises, it is an invaluable companion for the mature student. This third edition has much new content including a new chapter on writing a dissertation proposal.

This guide provides information based on the authors' own experiences as mature students, and their involvement with a national research project into the guidance needs of this group. It covers topics such as: choosing higher education, preparing for higher education, choosing a course, applications and interviews, finance, life in higher education and benefits of higher education.