As more and more education changes to an online format, our study habits must adjust accordingly. To overcome these challenges and achieve academic success, it is crucial to adopt effective study strategies. By understanding how our brains work and leveraging evidence-based techniques, we can retain knowledge more effectively – even in an online learning environment. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the latest study tips that can maximize learning.
Embrace Active Learning
Passively reading textbooks or notes may seem like a productive study method, but research suggests* that actively engaging with the material leads to better retention and comprehension. Instead of reading and re-reading and re-reading, try the following techniques:
- Summarize key concepts in your own words. If you can do this out loud, it helps your brain process the information in 3 ways: visually (reading), audibly (hearing your own voice), and cognitively (transferring the information into bits you understand)
- Teach the material to someone else. If a friend is not available, explain the material to a pet or stuffed animal. A live person is best because they can challenge you with questions, but studies show that teaching inanimate objects has a similar learning effect.
- Create flashcards or concept maps to reinforce connections between ideas. Flashcards are effective by promoting active recall. Limit the information on each flashcard to one question to help streamline the learning process.
- Practice problem-solving by applying concepts to real-life scenarios. Practice makes perfect – but it also cements in the learning process. Act as though you’re already on the job. How would you apply the information you’re learning?
Utilize ‘Spaced Repetition’
Cramming information right before the exam might seem like a good way to hammer in those little bits of information. However, studies consistently show that spacing out your study sessions over time leads to better long-term retention. ‘Spaced repetition’ involves reviewing material at increasing intervals which reinforces memory and prevents forgetting. Take advantage of spaced repetition techniques by:
- Breaking down your study sessions into shorter, frequent intervals. To take this technique to the next level, set aside the same time(s) to study every day.
- Utilize online tools or apps that employ spaced repetition algorithms. Even setting a timer on your phone and listening to the same quiet, low pulse, lo-fi music in the background can help get into the mindset to study.
- Review previously learned material periodically to reinforce memory. In short, if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it, so pull out those old flashcards occasionally while learning your new material.
Practice Retrieval and Interleaving
The act of recalling information from memory strengthens neural connections and improves long-term retention. Combine retrieval practice with interleaving, which involves switching between different topics or combining them, to boost your learning:
- Quiz yourself to retrieve information from memory. Study – test – study- test has been shown to be one of the best methods for learning. Create your own essay questions on flashcards and use those to randomly test yourself. Study the areas where you stumbled. Rinse and repeat.
- Interleave your study sessions by mixing different topics within a single study session. This creates connections between the topics which will come in handy down the road when you’re testing for a license or in the field.
- Embrace challenging questions or problems that require you to actively recall and apply knowledge. The tougher the question seems, the more knowledge you’ll gain by breaking it down and creating a solid answer.
- Vary the order of study material to reinforce connections between related concepts. Licensing tests do not have the same questions as practice tests. Nor are the questions on the exam in the same order as the lessons. Mixing up the lesson concepts will keep your recall fresh instead of you accidentally memorizing the practice tests.
Optimize Your Environment
Creating an optimal study environment can significantly enhance your focus and productivity. Consider the following elements when setting up your study space:
- Minimize distractions by turning off notifications to your phone and computer (especially email). Using website ad blocker technology can help you stay focused on creating flashcards or typing notes.
- Maintaining good lighting, preferably with natural light, will reduce eye strain and improve alertness. Natural light tells your body that it’s time to be awake, making it easier to concentrate and focus on your lessons.
- Experiment with background noise. Some studies suggest that moderate ambient noise can enhance concentration. White noises like a fan blowing, waterfall, or thunder sounds are soothing without being distracting. Another option is lo-fi music. The calm beats of lo-fi have therapeutic effects which reduce stress and anxiety by activating the frontal lobe, making it easier to focus. Lo-fi playlists are available through most streaming services and YouTube.
- Keep your study area organized and clutter-free. Our subconscious minds are constantly scanning our environment. Reducing distractions will promote mental clarity.
Get Sufficient Sleep
While it may be tempting to sacrifice sleep for more study time, research highlights the importance of quality sleep for learning and memory consolidation. Follow these guidelines to prioritize your sleep schedule:
- Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, which is the recommended amount for adults.
- Establish a consistent sleep routine to regulate your internal body clock. Our bodies love routine. Going to bed at the same time every night allows for your body to start preparing for sleep so you’re less likely to toss and turn waiting for sleep to find you.
- Avoid studying immediately before bed to allow your mind to unwind. A recent Harvard study revealed that blue light from phone screens and computers likely suppresses melatonin and shifts circadian rhythms by twice as much as other lights.
Studying new material, taking an online course, or preparing for a test can be stressful, especially if you haven’t done it in a long time. By aligning your study strategies with scientific research, you can maximize your learning potential and achieve success.
Remember to actively engage with the material, utilize spaced repetition, incorporate solid retrieval and interlacing strategies, optimize your study environment, and prioritize sufficient sleep. Incorporating these tips will empower you to approach your studies with confidence, enhance your retention of information, and ultimately excel in your educational journey.
*References:
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Barnes, Douglas (1989). Active Learning. Leeds University TVEI Support Project, 1989. p. 19. ISBN 978-1-872364-00-1.
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Bean, John C. (2011). Engaging Ideas: The Professor’s Guide to Integrating Writing, Critical Thinking and Active Learning in the Classroom (2 ed.). John Wiley & Sons. ISBN 978-1-118-06233-3.
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Kyriacou, Chris (1992). “Active Learning in Secondary School Mathematics”. British Educational Research Journal. 18 (3): 309–318. doi:10.1080/0141192920180308. JSTOR 1500835
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Rusbult, Craig. “Constructivism as a Theory of Active Learning”
