How do you go through university without using any paper, pens, or binders? For some, it’s unthinkable, for me it’s reality. Everything evolves, the way we learn, and study is no exception. I am Fleur, a 20-year-old business economics student, and I went digital.
When I started university, I asked myself: ”how do I want to organise myself as a student?” Most students go through university with their laptops and textbooks. But that’s not what I wanted. I prefer writing over typing and that’s why I decided not to buy a laptop but to go for an iPad. I still wanted to be able to physically take notes but still have the advantages of a digital filing system. The iPad has the best of both worlds and that’s how it all started. Of course, like with every change, I needed to adjust. I needed to find my way into this new world of digital note-taking but let me tell you, it’s so much fun.
Firstly, what does it entail or mean to be a digital student? Going digital as a student is not a straightforward decision. You need to change your entire way of organising. It means you don’t take notes on physical paper, but you write out your notes on some kind of tablet. Everything you would do with paper and pen will be done with electronic devices. Some go a little further and use no paper at all. I still use paper textbooks thus I’m am not 100% a paperless student.
The main reason why I went digital was to retain the possibility to physically write but also if I’m completely honest, I wasn’t the most skilled person when it came down to using computers. So, an iPad it was! Along the way, I learned that going digital had way more advantages than I anticipated. You always have your files with you, and you never lose a single sheet of paper. Plus, you don’t need to print out every presentation your professor provides you with, etc.
So, how do you go digital? Everything starts with research. Get to know what kind of devices people use, what apps, and so on. Try to get familiar with the methods and software digital students like to work with. YouTube and Instagram are great places to get to know the digital community. We’re a niche one, but alive and kicking. Going digital also inspired me to start my own Studygram account on Instagram. On my account, I share my experience and thoughts as a digital student.
After you’ve done your research, just take a second to think it through. Will this digital lifestyle suit your needs? Is it possible to go digital for your particular study? Going digital doesn’t work for everyone and that’s fine but find out why.
I could tell you so much more about this topic but it’s maybe more fun for you to explore. Give this idea a thought and find out how this could serve you as a student. Please for more information, tips, tricks, and ideas I invite you to visit my Instagram account.
Thank you, The Student Aspect, for giving me the chance to tell my story. Good luck everyone, be kind and stay safe.