Now’s the time to set up your perfect study space
What makes a great study space?
As we move to a blended learning model in which many of you will be studying both online and on campus, it’s important that you have a dedicated study space that will accommodate all your study needs.
Take a look at your existing study space and see if there’s anything you can add or change to improve your comfort and productivity.
Is it functional?
It’s hard to concentrate on your study if you’re surrounded by chaotic mess or you’re in a workspace that doesn’t have all the study supplies you need.
- Do you have the learning and research materials you need on hand? If you’re on campus, visit the library to access any resources you need. You are encouraged to download the Deakin Borrow app which allows you to borrow physical items straight off the shelf from your campus library, and remotely manage or renew your loans. If you’re at home, you can access a wide range of resources and help from our friendly library staff online.
- Are you getting low on supplies? If you’re on campus, you can visit the DUSA Bookshop at Burwood to purchase all sorts of study accessories and stationery, or check out the stationery vending machines at Burwood (Student Central Precinct, Building HE), Waurn Ponds (Building KA, Level 3) or Waterfront (outside the library, Building D, Level 3) which stock all sorts of items from USBs and drink bottles to safety glasses and notebooks! If you’re studying from home, visit the online DUSA Bookshop for all your stationery needs and have everything delivered straight to your door!
- Is your computer set-up working well? For any issues with CloudDeakin tools and other technologies, get in touch with IT Help online or over the phone, Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm, and weekends, 11am–5pm.
Is it comfortable?
A pleasant study space will not only ensure you can focus on your work, but it can also play a big role in your motivation to study.
- What’s your favourite spot at home or on campus? If you already have an area where you like to spend time, it might be best to set up your study space in this space. If it’s at home, you could decorate the space with a few lamps, a pot plant or some motivational posters to keep you inspired while you hit the books. If you find you are more productive on campus, you could book your favourite study pod or nook in the library and dedicate more of your time there.
- Do you have good lighting? A study spot with natural light is a bonus when it comes to keeping you mentally alert and inspired to study. If you are hitting the books in the evening, make sure you have adequate lighting on your desk to protect yourself from eye strain.
Is it distraction-free?
Wherever you study, it should be a place where you’re able to concentrate on the task at hand.
- Is your study area quiet? Choose an area where you’re not going to be disturbed by others. If you don’t have full control over the noise levels in your home, you might want to consider investing in some noise-cancelling headphones or book a quiet space to study on campus.
- Can you hold your focus? A great way to add some focus to your study space is to display your study plan nearby so you never lose sight of your goals. You could pin your list of study goals on the wall at home or keep it on your phone so you see it regularly, or print out a copy of the 2021 Trimester planner and tuck it into your books to refer to on campus. There’s also an option to print out a weekly schedule from the study workload planner.
Is it ergonomic?
It’s important that your study space is a healthy space.
- Is your study space going to protect you from aches and pains? Setting up an ergonomically sound desk and chair (and watching your posture!) is a crucial starting point for maintaining focus and good health while you work. Read our guide to setting up a computer workstation.
- Are you taking enough breaks? Sitting for a long period of time can have a harmful impact on your body, so make sure you regularly stand up from your desk. No matter where you’re studying, set a timer on your phone for 30–60 minutes and when it goes off, take a short five-minute break.
Looking for some peace and quiet?
Can’t find a suitable space to study at home? We can help!
- There are dedicated learning spaces on each campus (including rooms, booths and study desks in the campus libraries) where you can book some time to settle in with your books and learning materials.
- You’re also welcome to visit our Dandenong or Werribee Learning Centres if they are convenient to your location – they are open this study period and operating in a COVIDSafe way.
- If you’re located in the outer-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, you could also visit an Eastern Regional Library location which has access to eduroam.
Heading to campus? Help us stay COVIDSafe. All students coming to campus should be aware of the guidelines outlined in Deakin’s COVID-19 FAQs. Read more about how to be COVIDSafe on campus.