Study Skills
Undertaking further studies whilst working in healthcare is rewarding and worthwhile, but it can also be challenging. Support is available to help you develop your academic skills, whether you are currently studying or preparing for further studies.
Please note that most course providers will offer support through their own library or academic skills departments. We will refer staff to these services where we feel they would be more appropriate.
Online courses to develop study skills
OpenLearn hosts free courses provided by the Open University, a world leader in distance learning.
You can explore the full course catalogue, or use the below links to access courses on a specific topic:
- Essay and report writing skills
- Developing good academic practice (including how to avoid plagiarism)
- Extending and developing your thinking skills
- Succeed with learning
LearnHigher shares free, high quality resources for learning development in the higher education sector (free sign up required)
You can explore the full range of teaching and learning resources, or use the below links to access resources on a specific topic:
Academic writing
Academic writing style is different to everyday written communication. It needs to have a formal tone, and present clear arguments in a logical way. It does not need to be overly complicated, but does need to be well planned, accurate, focussed and proofread.
Below, you will find links to academic writing guides from local universities:
- University of Leeds: Writing
- Leeds Beckett University: Essay Writing
- University of Huddesrfield Dissertation Survival Guide: Writing up
You may find tools such as Alex Essay Writing Tool helpful.This supports you through the process of planning and structuring your writing.
Need more tips on academic writing? Check out our collection of academic writing skills books
Want to include reflective writing in your essays? Explore our collection of reflective writing books.
Need to tips on how to read a paper? Develop your knowledge with our collection
Finding information
Although our librarians cannot do searches for university students, we can help support you with using our resources.
Need more evidence to support your academic argument? Check out our Knowledge and Library Hub to track down the latest research.
Want to sharpen your searching skills? Take a look at our searching skills books. Alternatively, check out our information skills guide to see what tutorials we offer.
Referencing
To ensure you are using the correct referencing style for your assignment, check with your course tutor. Below, you will find links to referencing guidelines for a number of local universities:
Study skills resources from the universities in Leeds
Universities provide a range of study skills resources and support. Whilst these services are primarily aimed at their own students, the resources are often freely available online for anyone to access. These range from information on note taking, to time management, and referencing. Use the links below to explore the academic skills resources available online via our local universities:
OpenAthens
An OpenAthens account gives all NHS staff and learners access to a wide range of online resources.