Concluding remarks

Finally, it's a good idea to spend a little time thinking about how you are going to make the most of the opportunity you have been given. Your time in university should increase not only your knowledge but also your understanding. Just as importantly, it should also improve your ability to think clearly and critically. You will also become socially and academically more independent while at the same time developing good interpersonal and collaborative skills. Ultimately, you should actively seek learning opportunities other than those provided in the classroom, thus becoming a self-directed learner and laying the foundations for lifelong learning.

End of unit: Action

Now that you have reached the end of this initial unit, take some time to create your own personal manifesto for the time you will spend in DCU! Take into account the content of this unit. You could perhaps think about the questions in the box below and record your thoughts in your reflective learning journal (See unit 'Reflective learning: keeping a reflective learning journal).

What do I want from my time in Higher Education?
What kind of degree am I aiming for?
Am I prepared to engage fully with my subject area(s)?
Am I prepared to do all the reading required for my programmes?
What are my preferred learning styles?
What is going to be my balance of time between study and socialising?
What kinds of extra-curricular activities will I engage in?
Are there other interests I want to pursue while in DCU?
How should I plan my time between lectures?
Am I prepared to spend some extra time developing and deepening my learning skills? For example, am I prepared to work through each of the units in this learning resource portal?

Well done! You have taken the first step in your journey towards enhancing your learning experience.