Student Learning Services Academic Skills Advisor Joshua tells us how he supports students to develop skills that make learning easier, the sense of relief students experience when they use the service, and how it feels to have recently become an author.

Hi Joshua! Can you tell us about your role and how you support students?

Basically, I support students to strengthen their academic work. Ideally, this also makes studying more enjoyable, lowers students’ stress levels, and helps students better understand themselves as learners.

When I meet with a student, I ask about their personal experiences of learning and what does and doesn’t work for them. I use their answers to suggest concrete strategies and tools that will hopefully make studying and learning easier for them. 

How did you get into this role?

I used to be a teaching assistant. People would come to me with concerns about their writing, and I discovered I had a way of giving guidance that resonated with people. Knowing I could help was a nice feeling, so I decided to follow that path, and that’s how I ended up becoming an Academic Skills Advisor, first in Canada, and eventually at Stirling.

What’s your favourite part of your role?

Working with both students and academics is rewarding. I’m in a very lucky position where, in most cases, I’m able to help someone.

At university, as in much of life, many of us have learned to ‘just get on with it’. This can get the job done, but often there’s a better way – and I get a real kick out of helping people find better ways.

What do you want students to know about the service?

That we’re here and both undergraduate and postgraduate students are welcome to use Student Learning Services. To make an appointment with us, contact the Student Services Hub.

Also, that the earlier the student gets in touch with us, the better. If a student meets with us at the start of the semester, the skills they learn will have more of an impact on their coursework.

Finally, that teaching staff can approach us to integrate our support into the curriculum. This can be a very productive collaboration.

Can you tell me a fun fact about yourself?

I’ve just published a book called AI for Students. It demonstrates several ways students can use AI to stimulate thinking and get work done, without outsourcing their brains. The approach is fairly straightforward but makes a massive difference when it comes to academic integrity and quality of work.

I’ve had a few students speak to me recently to let me know the book has helped them – which feels great!

Thanks for speaking to us Joshua!

The Student Services Hub brings lots of services together to help you resolve a range of queries through a single point of contact, easily access the services you need, and thrive during your studies. Find out more on the University of Stirling website.