Effective Study Skills for Academic Success

Aug 26, 2024

Study Skills Lecture Notes

Introduction

  • Speaker: Dr. Marty Lobdell, Psychology Professor
  • Focus: Improving students' study skills for better academic performance.
  • Goal: Transition students from average performers to A+ students within a semester.

Rule 1: Take Breaks

  • Key Idea: When you start to slide in concentration, take a break.
  • Study Time: Study for 30 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break.
  • Benefits of Breaks:
    • Improved memory
    • Reduced stress
    • Enhanced health
    • Increased energy
    • Better performance and creativity
  • Motivation Tip: Reward yourself after study sessions (e.g., a treat, fun activity).

Rule 2: Create a Study Area

  • Importance of a Designated Study Space:
    • Helps in focusing and conditioning the brain to study in that area.
    • Example: Use a lamp solely for studying to signal your brain it's study time.
  • Results of Study Area Experiment: Students who used a designated study lamp scored higher grades compared to those who didn't.
  • Tips for an Effective Study Space:
    • Well-lit environment
    • Control of noise and light
    • Personal touches for motivation

Rule 3: Focus on Understanding vs. Memorization

  • Memorization vs. Conceptual Understanding:
    • Memorizing facts is only part of learning.
    • Understanding concepts leads to deeper knowledge retention.
  • Deep Conceptual Learning vs. Surface Learning:
    • Deep learners engage in discussions and seek to understand material beyond facts.
  • Example: Understanding the function of body parts (e.g., bones) is more valuable than rote memorization of their names.

Rule 4: Prioritize Sleep

  • Impact of Sleep on Learning:
    • Adequate sleep (around 8 hours) is essential for memory consolidation, particularly REM sleep.
  • Consequences of Poor Sleep:
    • Difficulty in memory recall and learning efficiency.
    • Sleep disorders (e.g., sleep apnea) negatively impact memory.
  • Tips for Better Sleep:
    • Limit caffeine and screens before bed.
    • Engage in physical activity.
    • Establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Conclusion

  • Final Thought: "Dreams don't work unless you do."
    • Creating a study routine becomes a beneficial habit.
  • Follow-up: More study tips to come in part two.