Tips and Resources for Academic Success

University services are available to support you and your success no matter where you are or the structure of your classes.
This page will provide you with tips, resources, and links to help you manage your classes at Tech.

Before Classes Start

Set up your Technology

The IT Help Desk is ready to help you access Canvas, technology, and downloading software. And, technology is available for loan through IT on a limited basis. Email it-help@mtu.edu for more information.

Canvas

Make sure that you have your login and you are checking your classes ahead of time. Make sure that you are logged into canvas and check for your syllabus.

Class Expectations

Whether your classes are in-person, remote, online or a hybrid, there are a few tips that will help you manage your class load. While it takes some time to adjust or pivot between class structures, being patient, being prepared, and being organized will help no matter the structure.

Attendance

Class attendance may not be required for all classes but it is highly recommended that you attend all of your class sessions. In session, you will be able to get clarification on the assignments, you may get notes that were not in the readings for exams, you will find peers to study with, and you will get to know your professors.

Being Prepared

When going to class you should have read the material for that class, gone through the syllabus, and be prepared to take notes. This means bring your fully charged computer, tablet, pen/pencil, and paper.

For remote or online classes, make sure that your computer is charged, make sure that your location is distraction free and make sure that you turn on your camera.

Time Management

Most classes require 2-4 hours of study time outside of class. It is important that you schedule time to do the work.  it is recommended that you review your notes, read the chapter, and write your papers several times before they are due. "Cramming" the night before does not work in college. Writing your papers last minute will no longer get you a passing grade.

Tips for Time Management

Use Support Resources

If you find you need help, reach out to us. The Dean of Students, academic advisors, and staff members at the Learning Centers, Counseling Services, and Student Disability Services are all here for you. Staff might be available in-person, via phone or virtually through Google Hangouts or Zoom. If you know who to reach out to, email them. If you aren’t sure who to ask, contact success@mtu.edu or call 906-487-3558.

Learning Centers

Learning Centers have in-person and virtual hours available.

Tips for Online Courses      

Be Accountable

Though we’re sometimes working remotely, we’re still in this together. Patience, honesty, and a willingness to give and accept feedback will be integral to everyone’s success this semester. Keep University values in mind and support each other as best you can. 

Tips for Taking Online Classes

These eight strategies for online courses can help you be successful in an online setting.

Use Remote Meetings

If you need to hold group meetings, use Google meet or Zoom to keep your group on track. You can also record your meetings in case team members can't attend.

Tips for Taking Notes

Note taking can be intimidating but there are several ways to take notes. Find a style that works best for you.

The Cornell Method

The Cornell Method allows you to outline the major themes or subject headings on the left side of your paper, and the details on the right side of your paper.

Outline Method

The outlining method is perhaps the most common form of note taking used by college students; an outline naturally organizes the information in a highly structured, logical manner, forming a skeleton of the textbook chapter or lecture subject that serves as an excellent study guide when preparing for tests.

Mind-Mapping

A Mind Map is an easy way to brainstorm thoughts organically without worrying about order and structure. It allows you to visually structure your ideas to help with analysis and recall.

Matrix / Chart Method

The matrix or charting method is a way of organizing previously taken linear notes. For example, if you took notes in class using the Outline Method, you might then make more concise notes from these in a matrix format. How it works: As you read through your notes, pull out the major topics and categories, which become the headings at the tip of your chart. Fill the chart in with common aspects or important pieces of each topic or category. You might also find it helpful to write down questions you have in the left-hand column to help better organize and compare each category.

Lecture Slides

If your professor puts their slides on canvas ahead of time, print them off and take your notes right on the slide to help you recall what was said about each slide.

Tips for Studying

Now that you have all these great notes what do you do with them?

Planning study time is just as important as showing up to class. Here are some great planners to help you manage your time.

Make it a PDF: Camera Scanners

Want to convert homework or other information to PDF format? Apps such as Genius Scan and Google’s PhotoScan make it possible.