Learning and Study Strategies

Learning and Study Strategies in FYF 101

Attention vs. Concentration

• Attention:

  • A selective process that controls awareness of events in the environment.

• Concentration:

  • A term used to identify the continual refocusing on a perceived stimulus or message.

Distracters

External Distracters

• Environmental sources of interference

• Interruptions

• Uncomfortable study areas

• Disruptive roommates

Internal Distractors

• Irrelevant thoughts

• Worry

• Physiological and emotional distress

• Daydreaming

Strategies that Encourage Concentration

• Monitor concentration.

• Use self-reminders or self-direction.

• Set goals.

• Manage your time effectively.

• Take breaks.

• Use active learning strategies.

Using the Text

Strategies for Effective Reading

• 5 Effective Reading Strategies:

  • Determine importance.

  • Summarize information.

  • Draw inferences.

  • Generate questions.

  • Monitor comprehension.

Steps to Process Text

Before Reading:

• Briefly preview upcoming content.

• Check the back of the chapter for questions, summaries, etc.

• Review the headings and subheadings.

During Reading:

• Form questions.

• Annotate text.

After Reading:

• Answer questions.

• Summarize material in your own words.

IPS in Bloom’s Taxonomy

• Create:

  • Design a study routine that maximizes working memory.

• Evaluate:

  • Assess if students should use cell phones while studying.

• Analyze:

  • Compare elaboration and organization.

• Apply:

  • Use mnemonics to remember components of self-regulation.

• Understand:

  • Importance of encoding information for memory retention.

• Remember:

  • Duration information stays in short-term sensory store.

Let's Study

Strategies and Tips for Exam Preparation

• Study Strategies:

  • Start early; as soon as readings begin.

  • Create questions based on readings.

  • Utilize online resources like Quizlet.

  • Use chapter questions from the book.

  • Compare study guide with previous exams.

  • Teach others concepts.

  • Create a summary sheet in your own words.

  • Build concept maps.

  • Practice problems.

  • Outline potential essays.

Additional Reminders:

• Chunk study time effectively.

• Engage in positive self-talk and maintain the right mindset.

• Allocate time for tutoring or professor assistance if needed.

• Ensure to get adequate sleep.

Test Day

Strategies for Exam Taking

Multiple Choice:

• Make predictions.

• Answer the actual question posed.

• Utilize a benchmark for answers.

• Evaluate validity of information and context clues.

Math/Science Questions:

• Complete daily homework.

• Write down difficult formulas and equations at the test start.

• Show all work for accuracy.

• Consider skipping hard problems initially.

• Recheck all problems for errors.

• Write legibly; details matter.

True/False Questions:

• Consider that there are usually more true statements.

• Watch for modifying phases and long statements.

Fill in the Blanks:

• Read questions meticulously.

• Pre-think questions to prepare.

• Attempt to answer all questions.

Essay Questions:

• Outline if questions are provided in advance.

• Estimate time to allocate per question.

• Read questions carefully and pay attention to keywords.

• Re-read and proofread your responses.