Study Strategies: Improve Your Learning

By: Pedro T Gondim
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:26:41
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What is 'method'? Method (from Greek methodos or met hodos meaning "way across") is a word which entered English in 1541 via French and Latin, and is defined as 'a series of steps taken to complete a certain task or to reach a certain objective'. Scientists use the scientific method to define the procedures related to research and study in scientific fields. Chefs use different methods of cooking to be able to reproduce different types of food from all around the world. What about students? Students also have their own methods - techniques to improve their learning which are developed from a mix of individual preferences and environmental circumstances. Have you ever considered how effective your study methods are? Well, in case you haven't, we've compiled some strategies for you.

1. Study in short, frequent sessions: This "distributed learning" approach is highly efficient as it takes into consideration how your brain naturally performs. The brain needs recovery and recharging time for protein synthesis, which it acquires in the rest periods between one session and another (it can also be called an 'assimilation period'). Studying for long hours without breaks is likely to cause fatigue and stress, which decreases your capacity to absorb information.

2. Study under feasible circumstances: If you are emotionally distressed, very tired, angry or not feeling well, it is likely you will not absorb much data. Sometimes the best thing to do in this circumstance is to take a break. If your time is your most valuable asset, the last thing you'd want is to spend it ineffectively.

3. Reviewing is a good practice: Merging your memory with your present is the best way to effectively understand and memorise the content of your study. If you have read something in the morning, try reviewing the key points at night. Simple words, verbs or case scenarios will activate your memory, and it is also likely you will capture a few things you did not the first time round.

4. Learning is a logical process: Understanding the context of your studies enables you to learn at a much faster pace. During your learning, try to draw a picture of the whole process and then fill it with the specific details. Once you understand the logic of what you are learning, you'll find it much easier to solve varied problems.

5. Create associative mechanisms: Associative words are memory triggers. Sometimes a lot of data is stored in your brain in hard-to-access places. By creating associations, you are creating links between different entities and scenarios, which facilitates your memory's capacity to retrieve data.

6. Build a temple: Create your own place to study - a study temple, and don't let anyone access it. Once you step into your temple (which could be comprised of anything that helps you concentrate on your task), you're free of all external interruptions: kids, parents, work, telephone, tv. The environment will help switch your brain into 'study mode', and the 'burden' of having to study will become a constructive and pleasant way of having a break from everything else.

7. Pay attention to your own mistakes: When studying, it is normal to forget things, have a bad exam or get stuck writing an essay. Instead of punishing yourself about it, simply accept the fact it happened and analyse the reasons for it. You may be able to identify something in your study process which is causing diversion from your objectives. Remember that defeat is not an end, just a temporary detour.

8. Create a study framework: Developing study schedules and protocols will not only help you concentrate, but will also serve as measurements of productivity. Furthermore, creating rules for your study sessions will help you achieve the 'study mode' and keep your 'temple' in good shape. But once you set your study framework, make sure you stick to it!

9. Set goals: Setting goals will help you progress periodically in your studies. Goals help to measure your productivity, keep yourself motivated, maintain your focus, realise your achievements and, most importantly, improve control over your available resources. However, be realistic when setting your goals - make sure they are achievable.

10. Realise your potential: Finally, your confidence is what will take you from here to there. You may lack a multitude of resources that you'd like to have during your studies, have other major responsibilities along the way, or think that the task is too difficult for you to achieve - but once you picture yourself where you'd like to be, you can rest assured that it is achievable. Realise that potential and go for the ride!

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