Academic Reading

The LDC helps students understand how to read academic texts efficiently and effectively. We give them strategies for identifying key information, encourage them to approach text through direct questions, and teach them how, when and where to skim, scan or close read Academic Writing.

Academic Writing

The LDC offers a variety of embedded sessions, workshops, and resources on academic writing. We offer guidance on structure, clarity, and audience and can help students develop strong arguments, use evidence effectively, and write in an appropriate style.

Academic Writing for Masters

A series of online workshops that break down some of the challenges facing Masters students in their postgraduate year. Run during trimester A & B, this series will cover things like transitioning from undergraduate to masters, developing academic writing skills, integrating sources with criticality and report writing. Students will be attached to a specific module for these workshops and topics/scheduling will be announced there.

Critical Analysis (Reading and Thinking)

The LDC helps students develop critical thinking skills by showing students how to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, identify arguments and make connections between ideas. Our goal is to strengthen students’ ability to critically engage with academic texts and apply their thinking to their written work.

Dissertations

The LDC supports students with their dissertation from planning to editing. We offer workshops to assist students with time managing their project, writing their project proposal, writing introductions and conclusions, understanding the methodology section, and understanding and avoiding common mistakes.

Dissertation Writing Series

Working on your capstone project or dissertation can be exciting and challenging at the same time. You will need to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of your chosen topic while condensing that information critically in your text. As you start your project, you may have various questions on how to best approach the writing aspect. The Dissertation Writing Series is aimed at supporting you on this journey. Sessions are aimed at undergraduate and taught Masters students working on their dissertations across SSE. Some of the topics covered include:

• Time Manage your Project
• Writing a Project Proposal
• Writing Introductions and Conclusions
• Common Mistakes in Dissertations

Embedded Sessions

Working with your module leaders, we join your course to build up your academic skills connected to what you’re working on in class. From helping you understand how to get the most from your coursework brief to giving you strategies on how to approach your writing or set helpful goals, each class is tailored to you. Information about these sessions will depend on your programme of studies and will be communicated to you via the relevant project module’s dedicated GCU Learn area closer to time.

Exam Prep

The LDC guides students through effective study strategies and exam time management skills. Through workshops and resources we guide students through techniques to make the most of their revision time and offer tips on reducing exam anxiety.

Goal Setting

The LDC helps students set good goals by guiding them to create specific, realistic and achievable targets. We introduce students to frameworks like SMART goals to help them create goals that will keep them focused and motivated.

Group Work

The LDC supports students working in groups by helping them develop key skills like: communication, organisation, and conflict resolution. Through workshops and resources, we offer strategies for setting shared goals, managing group roles, and working effectively as a team.

Managing Your Time Effectively

The LDC supports students’ time management skills by giving them the tools to plan and prioritise. Through workshops and online resources, we show students how to create realistic study schedules, break tasks into manageable steps, and balance academic expectations with other commitments.

Online Resources

Outside of workshops and classes, we have a variety of online resources to help you when you find yourself in need of a refresher or perhaps you have a quick query. All of our resources are available on the school’s GCU Learn page.

Planning Your Writing

The LDC can help guide students through the early stages of the writing process, including analysing the prompt, brainstorming ideas, and then organising their thoughts into a clear structure. This support enables students to write with greater focus, clarity and direction.

Presentations

The LDC supports students' development of their presentation skills by helping them plan and structure their content, ensuring their ideas are communicated clearly, and providing tips on engaging their audience. We can offer guidance on visual aids, managing nerves and creating clear, cohesive presentations.

Reflective Writing

The LDC helps students understand how to think critically about their learning experiences and express that personal insight within an academic context. We use exercises and examples to guide students to produce meaningful reflections and a thoughtful writing style.

Strategies for Editing and Proof-Reading

The LDC shows students techniques to tackle larger developmental edits, such as structure, clarity, and coherence, as well as smaller proof-reading items, like grammar and spelling. We teach students to approach their drafts critically and systematically, take them through practical examples, and empower them with the tools needed to polish their writing.

*Note: We are not a proof-reading service.

Structuring Your Reports

The LDC helps students understand how to properly structure their reports. From understanding the importance of paragraphing to larger structural components, like introductions and conclusions, we work with students to help them logically organise their ideas and maintain clarity.

Transitioning Series Workshops

Transitioning to GCU from school, college, or work can be overwhelming, these workshops are specifically designed to provide you with the study skills needed to succeed at GCU. Run over Tri A and B, dates and times are announced at the start of each trimester on the school’s GCU Learn page.

Tri A

• Transitioning to Uni
• Managing Your Time Wisely
• Writing Fundamentals
• Exam Prep

Tri B

• Reading Fundamentals
• Introduction to Effective Group Work
• Developing Your Presentation Skills
• Polishing Your Writing: An Intro to Editing Skills

Tri-C Resit Support Workshops

In the event you have to resubmit an assignment, you’re not alone. The LDC runs a six-week refresher course, designed to help you develop the academic skills to succeed. These sessions also include time to ask non-subject specific questions and gain guidance on your writing skills. Dates and times are announced at the start of Trimester C on the school’s GCU Learn page.

Understanding Your Assignment

The LDC can help students properly read and take advantage of their project brief. We can break down tasks into manageable parts, clarify key terms, and discuss what the brief is really asking for. By identifying expectations and planning an effective approach, students can start their coursework with confidence and stay on track throughout the process.

Understanding Your Feedback

The LDC can help students make sense of their feedback by explaining academic terms, identifying areas for improvement, and turning comments into action points. We work with students to help them understand what Module Leaders are looking for and how to apply their feedback to future assignments.

Using Sources

The LDC can teach students how to evaluate and integrate references into their writing. We explain the purpose of sourcing outside material and how to utilize them to engage in academic conversations within their work. Making sure students understand the difference between quoting, summarising and paraphrasing, we help student strengthen their arguments with integrity.