University can be a big transition from high school, in more ways than one. As a first-year student, it can be difficult keeping up with your courses and lecture content. Fortunately, there are a lot of resources available to help you navigate university life!

Ontario Tech offers numerous forms of academic support and they are readily accessible to everyone. Below are just a few services offered by our Student Learning Centre:

1. Drop-in options

At Ontario Tech we have daily drop-in academic support and homework help through study halls and the Writing Room—both online and in-person.

In our study halls, you can expect support in a variety of subjects such as math, physics and chemistry. Also, writing specialists and tutors are always available in our Writing Room, whether you need advice on your latest assignment or tips on how to overcome writer’s block!

2. Group learning sessions

The Student Learning Centre understands how important collaborating with peers and working in smaller groups are for your learning and development. This is why we offer workshops and Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) for several courses.

Weekly workshops are hosted by a subject specialist, where you get the opportunity to review the concepts learned in lectures and work on practice problems with other students. PASS sessions, on the other hand, are hosted by a peer facilitator who has previously taken the course and done well in it.

These are interactive and informal meetings, where you can ask questions, compare lecture notes, develop study strategies, and prepare for midterms and exams.

3. One-on-one assistance

At the Student Learning Centre, we recognize that everyone learns differently and that some may benefit from one-on-one help rather than group sessions. You can book individual tutoring sessions with a peer tutor or subject specialist, and receive assistance on course content and homework. These appointments are typically 45 minutes long and are currently offered both in-person and virtually. 

4. Academic events

Student Learning Centre host many events throughout the year to help make studying and learning fun! Some student favourites include the Long Day Against Procrastination (LDAP) and Long Night Against Procrastination (LNAP). These events encourage you to get an early start on your writing assignments and research papers, with our writing, studying, and research specialists available for assistance.

You’ll also have the opportunity to receive help with time management, research skills and exam preparation. Refreshments are available throughout the event and you can even win fun prizes! Currently, this event is offered with both in-person and online components.

5. Online resources

Our online learning resource, nool, is a convenient one-stop-shop that has a variety of video tutorials, virtual tip sheets and interactive tools designed to help you succeed. It provides a large collection of resources you can browse through if you need help with math, science, writing or general study skills.
Although university can be challenging at times, it is also a very rewarding experience that allows you to grow and develop in ways you may not have expected. It's important to remember you are not alone in this journey and you have support available to you. 

Blog written by: Samira Khattak

Want to find out about all the ways Ontario Tech will support you?