Mobile Hardware
A modern piece of technology which no student should be without if they can help it. Any piece of sufficiently advanced mobile equipment will work here, whether a phone, tablet or laptop. This helps not only in being able to easily check online for updates but in allowing the quick research of anything which comes up in real time. This is something our parents would have killed for, so make the most of it.
Mobile HardwareAdvanced SearchSocial MediaStay Alert
Image source: Pexels
Advanced Search
Many of us perform searches on the web every day, but many of us only know the most basic facets of this type of information gathering. Learning a few extra search commands, also known as “search operators”, to use on Google can massively increase the efficacy of your searches, and finding the right searches on which to search can also create a world of difference in usable results. Most commonly, at least on our end, we found the – command especially helpful for Google. This can be used to simply remove any results with the word following the -. A little thing, but one which can make all the difference, and this is only one of many possible options. Another good bet, especially when you’re really stuck, is taking advantage of the already existing homework market to get an idea of the correct answer. There are websites out there which can help with direct questions, for those without the time to mess around. Finally, be sure to check out websites dedicated to academic article searches, like Google Scholar. These are a godsend when it comes to proper citations, not only in terms of actually counting as real citations but in terms of also generating the exact citation for you, so you don’t have to bother with the constant hassle. “Google website screenshot” (CC BY-ND 2.0) by Spencer E Holtaway
Social Media
Despite being a form of technology that is so widely used by so many people, there are some who would rather avoid having their personal information online. While this is something we can absolutely agree with this, there are issues when it comes to group work that becomes so much easier with access to social media. Websites like Facebook, for example, allow a simple creation of groups for classes and assignments that are simply not possible in everyday situations. In cases like this, it can absolutely be worth to create an account to take advantage. Alternatively, there are other platforms and forums where such conversation can take place, but it’s often up to what the creator of the group has chosen to use – and, more often than not, that’s Facebook. If you are concerned about your private data, considering keeping your profile devoid of other information, just use it to access the study group. “Social Media Class” (CC BY 2.0) by mkhmarketing
Stay Alert
Be sure to keep an eye out when it comes to new developments in helpful technology. This is a marketplace and forum which continues to develop alongside the new technology, and it is often the first adopters who manage to pull out ahead of the pack. Remember what we wrote, and keep an eye on what your successful classmates use, and you’ll be well on your way to a much more successful university experience.
