Learning Skills Workshop
26 September 2012
Three weeks into their AS courses, members of the sixth form taking A-levels were taken off timetable for a half morning to engage in a Learning Skills workshop. The aim of the event was to help make the important transfer from GCSE skills and habits to those required at A-level, where independence and self-motivation become increasingly important. The event was split into two main parts.
The first was a demonstration of library and data base research skills, which focused on the wealth of information readily accessible to those who have the ability to navigate their way through the many subscription data bases available. Mr Torrien, our Head of library, set the group a task to identify a key figure in the development of one of the subjects being studied, and then to research that figure’s seminal contribution to the academic discipline. Completing this task will equip the pupils with research skills needed for their current courses as well as create the foundation for success as an undergraduate.
The second half of the morning consisted to three fifteen minute small group seminars. Taken together the seminars offered a series of hints and tips as to how to work successfully and more efficiently in the Upper School. Mrs Hill and Mrs Clarke offered some fundamental ideas about time and file management, so that the pupils become better able to manage their non-contact time and keep these vital learning resources in good order. Mr Foster discussed various learning strategies, from chain mapping through to Venn diagrams. The third seminar was given by Ms Florentin-Lee and tackled the essential skill of condensing a block of text into short, succinct yet useable learning and revision notes.
