Class material: having trouble understanding material in a class
Last Updated: Nov 04, 2024 Views: 205

If you are having trouble understanding material in a class, here are some strategies that can help:

  • Ask your professor for help or clarification. Try to keep a list of questions as they come up so that you don’t forget something that you need explained. You can ask questions in class, in lab, after class, in your professor’s office hours, by email, etc.
  • Form a study group with other students in your class. You can help each other fill in gaps in your understanding of the material or compare notes. Having multiple people working on the material can help you understand concepts that you struggle with on your own.
  • Work with a Peer Tutor. The Student Learning Centre (SLC) can match you with a trained tutor for help with your course. Peer Tutoring is also offered at the Perth campus and the Pembroke campus.
  • Participate in an essential skills workshop. Workshops can help with study skills, test preparation, writing, research, citing sources, and more.
  • Get coaching support through the SLC Coaching Lab. Coaches provide support with the fundamentals of math, writing, ESL, computers, anatomy & biology, and study skills. (Pembroke campus coaching is offered through their Student Support Lab.) 
  • Visit the Library for research support. The Library staff can help you find sources of information, like articles and books, for your projects. They can show you how to search through the Library website or locate a book on the shelves. Visit the Research Guide for more information.
  • Improve your study skills and strategies through the online.Essential Study Skills guide. Here you can find tips, videos, activities, and tools to help achieve academic success. It covers practical skills ranging from time management to studying effectively. You will also find tools and information to help you cope with the demands of college.
  • Access Counselling Services. Counselling Services provides Mental Health Counselling to help you address other issues that may be impacting your ability to focus on your studies. For students at campuses other than Ottawa, see the Perth Campus Counselling or the Pembroke Campus Counselling.
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