Differences in the approach to learning

In university learning which focuses on understanding and which is active (for example, asking yourself questions, summarising, structuring, evaluating, etc.) tends to be more successful than trying to memorise disconnected facts by rote. In other words, a deeper, more holistic approach to learning is required (as opposed to a ‘surface’ approach). You may be expected to do a lot of reading on or around your study area.

As you adjust to university life you may find it a bit overwhelming to adapt from being an information receptacle to a critically thinking self-directed learner. Many students make their way through education using passive surface learning – this may not be entirely the fault of the student! However, by developing deeper, reflective, critical and creative approaches to learning you will have a richer and more fulfilling higher education experience. It is hoped that the DCU learning resource units, of which this is one, will provide you with a starting point.

Each subject area has its own specialist discourse and a particular way of constructing knowledge. As you engage with the university learning experience you will progressively develop knowledge of this discourse, and through participating in it come to understand its particular conventions. All learning skills (e.g. the units in this learning resource) will therefore have to be developed within your discipline-specific framework.

Reflect for a moment on your own approach to learning. Would you say you have a ‘deep’ approach or a ‘surface’ approach? Why?

Suggestions for developing a 'deep' approach to learning 

1. Consciously engage with and participate in your subject area: its specialist discourse and conventions.
2. Continuously ask questions of your learning.
3. Become a more reflective learner and keep a learning journal (See unit, ‘Reflective learning: keeping a reflective learning journal’).
4. Develop your thinking skills (See unit, ‘Creative thinking & critical thinking’)
5. Develop your reading skills (See unit, ‘Active and critical reading’)
6. Develop you writing skills (See units under the heading 'Struggling with writing')