Laura

I am a published academic author, educated to doctorate level, with twenty years’ experience of teaching university students undertaking foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, including both UK and international students.

I support students from a range of backgrounds, cultures and age groups, with differing interests and needs. I have worked with students with anxiety, mental health issues and learning difficulties, and understand the need to provide flexible learning to meet a range of access needs.

For foundation and undergraduate students, the range of subjects, assignments and examinations undertaken during a degree can feel daunting and can overshadow the exciting and enriching university experience. I help students to untangle the web of assignments, manage time, organise commitments and develop skills.

I can provide support with planning assignments, structuring essays and exam answers, researching and conducting reviews of the literature, preparing for seminars and delivering presentations, as well as referencing and compiling bibliographies.

I have supported (and continue to support) many international and UK PhD students, providing guidance and assistance with research design, literature reviews, writing skills, data collection and analysis, as well as upgrade, viva, and conference presentation preparation.

I also have extensive experience of conducting academic research, writing and editing publications and proof-reading reports, theses and assignments. This experience has provided me with a wealth of knowledge and skills to support not just students, but also academics in their publications.

Tutoring Experience

My diverse roles as a lecturer, private tutor, and researcher have fostered a well-rounded approach to teaching and a deep understanding of academic expectations. I have honed my skills through:

• Delivering lectures, seminars and tutorials across various social science subjects.

• Providing comprehensive feedback by marking essays, exams, dissertations and PhD theses. This has strengthened my grasp of academic rigour and student needs.

• Supervising undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations and participating in PhD examination panels, offering valuable guidance, and fostering independent research.

• Developing a range of teaching materials: I have created engaging resources for various social science courses. This includes a core Study Skills module, which equips students with essential academic skills, like:

• Researching and note-taking
• Structuring academic work
• Developing writing styles
• Mastering referencing and bibliography construction
• Delivering presentations
• Preparing for exams
• Reflecting on learning

Designing this module allowed me to extensively evaluate and refine a comprehensive suite of study skills resources that I continue to use and share with my students.

My research and publication experience has also provided me with a strong understanding of academic expectations, standards and requirements, and I use this knowledge and experience to provide the most valuable support for students.

Tutoring Approach

I believe in creating a supportive, friendly, and practical learning environment where students are at the centre. Having experience with diverse learners and teaching styles, I tailor my approach to each student’s needs. This flexibility empowers students to discover the learning methods that suit them best.

My sessions are professional and informative, yet enjoyable and relaxed. This creates a positive learning experience that not only strengthens student confidence but also translates to academic success. I reassure students about what they are doing right, whilst offering guidance and support to help them refine their skills and reach their full potential.

Notably, all my past students have achieved significant results, including consistent grade improvements, successful PhD upgrades, and strong viva performances. My passion lies in helping students not just master the material, but also develop the confidence and skills to excel in their academic endeavours.