The Successful Scholar

The information contained in the course and book entitled “The Successful Scholar: A Preparation Course for Higher Education and Lifelong Learning” will aid in the development of the whole individual in becoming a lifelong learning and a dedicated scholar, achieving higher grades and developing a deeper understanding of one’s personalized learning preferences. In education, these preferences are called learning styles.

Each chapter (section within the course) contains several categories with videos, assignments and additional resources. There is also a document with the transcribed script for the videos for convenience.

Topics explored include choosing a major, developing a personalized learning plan based on validated learning theories, practicing study aids, familiarizing oneself with the campus community, developing professional relationships, creating career foundations in addition to other vital components for the successful scholar.

Becoming a scholar was not an easy experience for me. I struggled. Dropped out of college several times for a variety of reasons including finances, grades, lack of support, family, etc. I had a myriad of excuses for my failures until I learned I was lacking in the tools I needed to succeed. Being a first-generation college student, my parents didn’t have the tools to aid me in this process. It was foreign to them as if someone were speaking in Chinese to them and expecting them to understand!

With age, investigation and research, I learned about the ins and outs of campus life. I gained knowledge on learning theories. I appreciated the essential, even foundational tools associated with study aids, and put together an individualized learning plan which worked for me. I timidly approached my master’s degree with a heavy load of failures, discontentment and fears only to recognize I had developed the tools to really succeed. Not only did I succeed but I thrived. I worked hard at putting my plan into effect and completed my master’s degree with a 4.0 GPA.

Currently, I have the wonderful privilege of teaching high school. I adore my position and my students. My favorite times of the week are being with these wonderful students who brighten my days. I enjoy sharing my experiences and encouraging them in becoming lifelong scholars.

Academic success starts with a sure foundation. These are tools which I recommend making this success a reality. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Course Syllabus: The Successful Scholar

Course Description

This course prepares students for the experiences and challenges of higher education. Various learning and studying strategies will be introduced in addition to necessary planning and organizing skills. Students will be familiarized with several learning theories and develop a proficiency in time management, test-taking techniques, note-taking skills, study methods and learning from a textbook. Other topics explored include: choosing a major, career planning, choosing a college, creating a college community, getting to know your campus and developing professional relationships with peers, faculty and staff.

Course Objectives

• Know the value of higher education and how to achieve success.
• Identify learning styles and personalize learning strategies.
• Explore and develop time management strategies, study skills, organizational tips, test-taking skills and note-taking approaches.
• Examine aspects of campus life including:
  • Creating a college community.
  • Familiarizing yourself with campus resources.
  • Developing professional relationships.
• Create the foundations of career planning consisting of exploring a major, writing a basic resume and setting career goals.

Topics to be Covered:

• Why get a degree in higher education?
• Organizing
• Time management
• Goal setting and prioritizing
• Learning theories
• Developing a personalized learning plan
• Study skills
• Note-taking skills
• Learning from a textbook
• Test-taking skills
• Test anxiety and strategies to overcome
• Career planning
• Campus life
• Essential campus resources
• Learning resources
• Building a community
• Developing professional relationships

By Tracy Atkinson

Tracy Atkinson, mother of six, lives in the Midwest with her husband and spirited long-haired miniature dachshunds. She is a teacher, having taught elementary school to higher education, holding degrees in elementary education and a master’s in higher education. Her passion is teaching, researching, studying and enjoying time with her family. She has published several titles, including MBTI Learning Styles: A Practical Approach.  Courses available on learning styles and student success at: Udemy, Teachable or Thinkific.