Reading for Study
Reading is a fundamental aspect of academic work. It is likely to be the major way to gather
information about the discipline you are studying and it is a very valuable skill to enhance and
develop at university or college. One of the routes to develop the ability to think about and describe
the world in terms of a particular approach is through reading. Reading will provide an
understanding of the academic discipline being studied. Ultimately it will be one of the keys that
unlock the door to a career as a business manager, psychologist, engineer, chemist, teacher,
scientist and so on. As well as guiding you through your course, it will be an invaluable learning
tool in the world of employment. Reading opens up the possibility of gaining access to and an
understanding of the thinking of all the people who have developed models and theories or written
about a particular discipline.
One of the principal objectives of reading for study is to gather ideas and information and to
assimilate them into your own view of the world, and then to be able to express that view through
the assessment program or in seminars. Only by doing this can you understand a subject. During
your studies, you will be expected to read a wide range of texts including textbooks, academic
papers, articles, reports, case studies, and more. It is important to approach each text with a critical
mindset, questioning the author's arguments, evidence, and conclusions. This critical reading will
help you to develop your own opinions and interpretations of the material you are studying.
Additionally, reading widely will expose you to different perspectives and ideas, helping you to
become a more well-rounded and knowledgeable individual.
To make the most out of your reading for study, it is important to develop effective reading strategies.
This includes skimming and scanning texts to identify key information, taking notes while reading
to summarize key points, and engaging in reflective reading to deepen your understanding of the
material. It may also be helpful to discuss the readings with your peers or professors to gain
different insights and interpretations.
In conclusion, reading for study is a crucial skill to develop as a university or college student. By
reading widely, critically, and effectively, you will be able to enhance your knowledge, develop your
own ideas, and succeed in your academic endeavors.