A new online option for academic skill development is now available.
Through three self-paced, interactive micro-courses, the SMART program provides flexible, on-demand student support.
Each micro-course takes 30-45 minutes to complete. Topics include time management, note-taking and self-advocacy.
“The pandemic taught us the value of offering students choice in how they learn,” says Angela Rooke, manager, academic success and retention. “We designed the SMART program with accessibility and flexibility in mind."
Incoming students often struggle with these core academic skills; they come to UWaterloo knowing there will be different expectations about what they learn, but they are less aware that expectations also differ with regards to how they learn. Offering micro-courses on topics like note-taking and time management is one way to give students the tools they need to personalize their learning and to be self-regulating, independent learners.
The SSO also developed a micro-course on self-advocacy as a response to data that show our students, especially first-year students, don’t often ask for support from academic advisors and rarely seek support from faculty members on course concepts outside of class.
"Building self-advocacy skills in students feels especially important now," shared Angela. "Students need confidence to recognize when to ask for help, and who to go to for support. Asking for help is a critical step not only in students’ academic development, but also in their professional and personal growth."
The SMART program is just one great offering from the Student Success Office. Learn more about our other services, like Peer Success Coaching or Get Set for Success workshops