week 11 exam prep

Introduction

• Speaker: Craig Johnston, Academic Skills Advisor at Brunel University London

• Role: Specialized in helping students bridge the gap between lecture comprehension and exam performance.

• Contact Information: Email: ask@brunel.ac.uk, Twitter: @SK.

Objectives of Revision Techniques

• Approaches to Exam Preparation and Revision:

  • Time Management: Implementing block scheduling to maximize cognitive focus during peak alertness periods.

  • Learning Styles (VARK Model): Tailoring methods to Visual, Aural, Read/Write, and Kinesthetic preferences to enhance information encoding.

  • Memorization Strategies: Shifting from rote memorization to high-utility techniques like spaced repetition and active recall.

• Effective Strategies for Answering Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): Focusing on deductive reasoning and specialized retrieval methods.

Understanding University Exams

• Tutor's Intentions: Tutors aim to see evidence of critical thinking and synthesis of course materials rather than verbatim repetition.

• Success Factors:

  • Preparation and Organization: Using a centralized system for all module materials.

  • Content Relevance: Identifying the core themes of the syllabus that correlate with higher-weighted exam marks.

  • Optimal Environment: Establishing a distraction-free zone; minimizing cognitive load by removing digital interruptions.

  • Precision: Moving beyond general answers to provide specific, evidence-backed responses.

• Exam Design: University assessments are designed to measure learning outcomes. If you have met the module objectives, the exam is simply a platform to demonstrate that achievement.

Key Considerations: Memory vs. Understanding

• Cognitive Depth: Exams reward "Deep Processing." Understanding the "why" behind a fact makes the "what" easier to remember.

• Elaborative Rehearsal: Instead of repeating a definition, link it to an existing memory or a real-world scenario to strengthen neural pathways.

• Preparation Strategies:

  • Iterative Review: Reviewing material within 24 hours of first exposure to combat the "Forgetting Curve."

  • The Feynman Technique: Explaining a complex concept in simple terms to identify gaps in your own understanding.

  • AI Integration: Using LLMs to generate practice prompts based on lecture transcripts for self-testing.

Revision Strategy: Planning for Success

• Key Tip: Audit your syllabus. Rank topics from 1 to 5 based on your current level of confidence and prioritize the 1s and 2s.

Steps to Begin Revision

1. Segment Your Revision (Chunking):

   • Break large modules into "micro-goals" that can be finished in 45-60 minute sessions.

2. Consolidate Understanding:

   • Active Engagement: Use "Active Recall" by closing your book and writing down everything you remember about a sub-topic.

   • Diverse Media: Supplement slides with academic journals or reputable educational podcasts to see different perspectives on the same concept.

   • Study Groups: Peer teaching is one of the most effective ways to solidify knowledge; if you can teach it, you know it.

Timetabling Your Revision

• Strategic Prioritization: Use "Interleaving"—mixing different subjects in one day to improve the brain's ability to differentiate between concepts.

• Buffer Time: Always include "catch-up" slots in your timetable for topics that take longer than expected.

• Balance: Schedule "non-negotiable" breaks (exercise, social time) to prevent burnout and maintain long-term retention.

Example of a Revision Timetable:

Developing Your Memory through Action

• Condensation: Transforming 50 pages of notes into 5 pages of summaries, then into 1 page of keywords.

• Active Revision Techniques:

  • Paraphrasing: Rewrite concepts in your own unique voice to ensure ownership of the idea.

  • Visual Aids: Utilize Venn diagrams for comparisons or Flowcharts for processes.

Methods of Note-Taking

• Linear Method: Standard chronological notes. Best for high-speed lectures where structural organization happens later.

• Outline Method: Uses hierarchy ($I, A, 1, a$) to organize related concepts logically.

• Cornell Method: Efficient for review.

  • Cues Column: Keywords/Questions.

  • Notes Column: Main content during the session.

  • Summary: A $3-4$ sentence synthesis at the bottom of the page.

• Mind-Mapping: A central hub idea with branching nodes ($Idea \rightarrow Sub-idea \rightarrow Evidence$). Uses spatial memory and color-coding to group information.

Specialized Learning Tools

• Kinesthetic Learning: Use physical flashcards using the Leitner System (sorting cards into boxes based on how well you know them).

Fundamental Legal Definitions (Contract Formation):

• Offer: A specific proposal with the intent to be bound. Distinguished from a "request for information."

• Offeree: The party with the power of acceptance.

• Invitation to Treat: Not an offer, but an invitation for others to make an offer. Example: Partridge v Crittenden [1968].

Aural and Auditory Techniques

• Dual Coding: Combining aural input (listening to a recording) with visual input (looking at a diagram) to improve memory encoding.

• Self-Podcasting: Recording yourself explaining a topic and listening to it during commute or exercise.

Answering Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

• Psychology of MCQs: They test Recognition memory. Examiners often include "Distractors"—answers that look almost correct but contain a technical error.

• Revision for MCQs:

  • Focus on precise terminology and exact dates/names.

  • Practice the "Cover-up" method: Read the question, think of the answer, then look at the options to find your match.

• Guidelines for Execution:

  1. Instruction Check: Are you allowed more than one choice? Is there negative marking (penalties for wrong answers)?

  2. Elimination Phase: Cross out the two most unlikely answers immediately to increase your statistical probability of success to $50\%$.

Resource Management and Final Review

• Feedback Loop: Analyze previous assignment feedback. If you were told you lacked "critical analysis," ensure your revision notes include arguments and counter-arguments.

• Speed vs. Depth: Use "Skimming" for introductory sections and "Deep Reading" for core theories.

• Standard Reference Materials: Review the module Syllabus and Marking Criteria to understand exactly what the examiner is looking for (e.g., correct citation, logical flow).

Contact Information for Further Support

• Academic Success Knowledge (ASK): Access through the Brightspace portal for interactive modules.

• Working Hours: Mon-Fri: 10 AM - 5 PM; Extended hours: Mon & Thu until 7 PM.

• Social Connectivity: Follow @ASKBrunel for daily study tips and workshop updates.