Effective Learning

All students can benefit from help with developing their study skills. Our Effective Learning service is a free and confidential service which is tailored to meet the individual needs of our students.

The service is inclusive. We are committed to providing guidance that meets the specific learning and teaching needs of all students, including disabled students, d/Deaf students and those with dyslexia.

A selection of useful handouts is available in the area outside Academic Administration and Support (AAS) on the ground floor. Topics include citing and referencing for both drama and music students, conventions of essay and dissertation writing and aspects of study skill approaches.

Effective Learning Tutors

Our Effective Learning Tutors are available to provide assistance on a range of topics including:

  • Improving the quality of your written assignments
  • Referencing
  • Critical thinking
  • Managing your time
  • Reading strategies and note-making
  • Revision and exam techniques

Who can benefit from the service?

The service is open to any student wishing to strengthen their study skills at any point in their academic life.

This includes: undergraduates, postgraduates, part-time students, students experiencing difficulties with their work due to an impairment such as dyslexia, and those whose first language is not English.


What support is available?

The service is provided on a flexible basis including one-to-one appointments, workshops and online support.

Currently, the service is available on the following days:

Tuesday, 12pm–2pm

Thursday, 9.30am–11.30am

Friday, 4–6pm


How long do appointments last?

One to one forty-minute appointments can be made to discuss general study skills issues or specific assignments. For specific assignments, it is advisable to bring a draft copy of your work along (preferably on a USB stick), and to make the appointment at least a week prior to the date the assignment is due to be handed in.

An initial 15-minute appointment will also be arranged for students with a Learning Agreement, to discuss how ongoing support can be provided.


How do I arrange online support?

In the first instance, you should email to arrange this type of support. Please email els@rcs.ac.uk

Work should not be sent without prior agreement.


How can I find out about Study Skills Workshops?

A range of Study Skills Workshops will be held throughout the academic year. These will cover topics such as essay writing, note-making, exams and revision, and time management.

Dates and times will be advertised on the student intranet and on notice boards at the Royal Conservatoire. Lecturers and Course Organisers may also arrange specific study skills workshops to meet the requirements of their students. In this instance, your department will inform you of the time and date of the workshop.


How do I make an appointment or register for a workshop?

Please contact Reception at Academic Administration and Support (Room 1.12):

Telephone: 0141 270 8241
Email: els@rcs.ac.uk
Text direct: 18001 141 2708 241