GROW Model & Tech Tools - Quick Reference

GROW model

  • Four-step framework for goals and problem solving

  • GROW: Goal, Reality, Options, Will

  • Goal: be clear and specific; can leverage SMART insights if helpful

  • Reality: current position and what you need to achieve the goal

  • Options: possible solutions and what you can commit to

  • Will: commitment to actions to achieve the goal

  • After setting a goal, track progress, stay motivated, and adjust direction as needed

Tracking progress with technology

  • Tracking helps stay on track, maintain motivation, and adjust your approach

  • Use technology to plan, track, and manage your learning goals

  • Technology is a tool; the power comes from how you use it

Time management strategies

  • There is no one-size-fits-all approach; tailor strategies to you

  • Effective time management helps you complete coursework and still have time for hobbies

  • Regularly reflect on habits: what you do now and what you could do more of or differently

Tools for tracking progress

  • Spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets): simple, customizable grids; track tasks and deadlines; best for straightforward needs

  • Notion: customizable databases; track assignments, deadlines, notes, and attachments; visually appealing

  • Important: technology is a tool, not a magic wand; use it purposefully

  • Mastery of tools like spreadsheets opens broader skills (e.g., coding) over time

Practical example: Lucy

  • Lucy is a high school student balancing online learning, extracurriculars, and volunteer work

  • Uses Google Sheets for a weekly planner: columns for tasks, target dates, and completion status

  • Uses Notion for detailed tracking: pages per subject, list modules, take notes, and calendar view for deadlines

  • Google Sheets provides high-level task progress; Notion handles notes and resources

  • Result: stays organized and on top of tasks

Getting started with tools

  • Try a simple weekly planner in Google Sheets

  • Explore Notion for deeper organization

  • Tools are adaptable; do personal research to find what works for you

  • Don’t overuse tools; pick a dedicated tool for a specific use and stay consistent

Learn tools for learning and time management

  • Tools help you focus, organize, and stay motivated; support learning and deadline management

  • Focus on using tools to manage online lectures, deadlines, and productivity

  • Key tools and features:

    • Focus Keeper: Pomodoro-based; short bursts to maintain focus and manage energy

    • Google Calendar: schedule learning time, set reminders, plan breaks

    • Todoist: break tasks into manageable to-dos; prioritize and track progress

    • Habitica: gamify progress with rewards and consequences to build habits

    • Trello: boards for goals and tasks; drag-and-drop to track progress

    • Forest: grow virtual trees when staying off the phone; discourages phone use during study

  • With time, these tools can help build healthy study habits and routines

The Pomodoro Technique

  • Focus Keeper is based on the Pomodoro Technique (Francesco Cirillo, 1980s)

  • Learn how short focused intervals improve concentration and productivity

Get started: find your tools and stay consistent

  • Research and experiment with a few tools to determine relevance

  • Do not try to use every tool; assign a specific purpose to each

  • Maintain consistency to maximize benefits

Benefits of setting goals with technology

  • Goals help you develop a plan for improving your learning

  • Goals help you prioritize the tasks that matter most

  • Goals increase your focus and reduce distractions

  • Goals boost motivation as you see progress

  • Goals foster a growth mindset: learning is a journey and helps build resilience