Independent Learning: Pathway to Lifelong Success

Too much to do and too little time?

Too much to learn but don't know where to start?

Want to work hard and play hard as well?

One of the greatest challenges of studying in university, among many, is how to develop independent learning skills so as to facilitate effective and efficient learning of the academic content so time can be spared to develop other interests, sharpen soft skills, participate in meaningful work (paid or volunteer), network with others, travel & see the world ….

So … What do you need to learn? How do you learn it? How do you identify your priorities and set attainable goals?

Independent learning skills are key to your success. And you will still need them upon graduation as learning never ends!

Can't wait to harness independent learning skills? Start your independent learning journey NOW!

Initiative and
Perseverance
SWOT Analysis
Goal Setting
Time Management
Study Skills
Reflection and Personal
Development Planning

1. Initiative and perseverance

As cliché as it might sound, your independent learning journey begins with your resolve. Without anyone instructing you on what to do and checking your progress, you have to take the initiative and persevere during the course of self-learning.

2. SWOT Analysis

To maximise payoffs of your efforts, you may start by identifying your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) before planning out your independent learning. The results from a SWOT analysis would help you decide what to learn and make you aware of the possible obstacles that can impede your progress.

3. Goal Setting

With an understanding of your SWOT, you now have a better idea about areas that need the most improvement. The information can then be converted into input for your goal setting plan. Keep in mind that the plan is flexible in the way that goals are to be revisited and updated regularly. Goals can be refined, adjusted, added or removed so as to best suit your needs.

4. Time Management

In addition to university study, you have to spend time on hanging out with friends, accompanying your family, keeping abreast of local and world news, developing interests and soft skills, volunteering, participating in extra-curricular activities and so on. Time management skills can help you strike a good balance between your study and other aspects of life.

5. Study Skills

University study can be very stressful and daunting if your study skills are not strong enough to help you handle the large amount of reading materials, never-ending assignments and projects, group presentations and case analyses, as well as demanding and challenging tutorials. Improving specific study skills based on your SWOT analysis results would help you increase productivity and make your university life easier.

6. Reflection and Personal Development Planning

Successful independent learning entails self-reflection and motivation to further improve yourself. Keeping track of your learning progress and reflecting on your learning experience on a regular basis can help you carry on the independent learning journey. Your goals should be updated whenever necessary. Keep your goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timebound.