Similar term: online course area
Description: A dedicated online area which contains the information and resources for an online course.

Description: A structured outline of what you will be taught.

Description: Being critical is vital to academic study, and involves questioning and thinking more deeply about topics.

Similar terms: forum, message board, online discussion board
description: A discussion board or forum is an online discussion site where people can hold conversations in the form of posted messages.

Description: Elaboration is a study technique that involves explaining and describing ideas with many details. This includes making connections between ideas and connecting the information to personal experiences.

Description: Interleaving is a process involving moving between a number of different topics whilst studying, rather than spending a long time on one particular topic.

Similar terms: distance learner, distance learning student
Description: An individual who chooses to learn through activities or teaching delivered in an online space.

Description: Any situation in which a student learns through activities or teaching delivered in an online space.

Description: To delay starting an important piece of work or task, usually by undertaking less important tasks as a distraction.

Description: RAFT (Role, Audience, Format, Topic) is a writing strategy developed by Santa (1988) to help students understand their role as a writer and to communicate clearly, appropriately and with purpose. RAFT can be a useful guide when writing online.

Description: Retrieval Practice is a common theory held by educational researchers which suggests that students achieve better overall grades when they have been given smaller tests, more frequently.

Description: Spaced Practice is a study technique which involves reviewing information at regular intervals in order to increase memory and understanding of the material.

Similar term: face to face environment
Description: An individual who learns through activities or teaching delivering in a physical space such as a classroom or lecture.

Similar Terms: course tutor, lecturer
Description: A person responsible for directing and supporting your learning. Other names for this role include lecturer, course tutor, teacher, professor, programme lead, course lead, academic adviser.

Description: The WOOP technique is a practical, mental strategy that people can use set goals and plan for the future. WOOP stands for:

Wish
Outcome
Obstacle
Plan

This resource will help you to develop skills and practice techniques which will in turn help you to become a more critical learner. By improving your abilities to collaborate, communicate and use your time effectively for learning, you will be able to develop your critical reading, thinking and writing skills.