5.0. Learning Objectives
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- Prepare for listening in class and taking notes.
- Use a syllabus.
- Apply strategies that make listening more effective.
- Explain why taking notes is important.
- Apply strategies to make note taking more effective.
- Identify what is important to remember.
- Understand the difference between short and long-term memory.
- Develop strategies to help you read effectively and quickly.
- Deal with test anxiety.
- Apply strategies for taking tests.
Key Terminology
Activity 5.1: Assessing Study Skills
Assess your present knowledge and attitudes.
| Yes | Unsure | No | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. I am satisfied with my grades. | |||
| 2. I usually feel well prepared for classes. | |||
| 3. I usually understand what is going on in class. | |||
| 4. I find it easy to stay focused in class. | |||
| 5. I am not shy or self-conscious about asking questions. | |||
| 6. I learn from recorded lectures and podcasts. | |||
| 7. I take useful notes in class. | |||
| 8. I go to the instructor’s office when I have a question about an assignment. | |||
| 9. I can successfully study for a test from the notes I have taken. | |||
| 10. I use different note-taking methods in different classes. | |||
| 11. I do not have trouble remembering facts and ideas. | |||
| 12. I retain useful information after an exam. |
Where Do You Want to Go?
Think about how you answered the questions above. Be honest with yourself. On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your level of academic achievement at this time?
| A poor student | An excellent student | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
In the following list, circle the three most important areas in which you think you can improve:
- Preparing for class
- Taking effective notes
- Listening in class
- Using different systems for note taking
- Using seat selection to your advantage
- Remembering facts and figures
- Remembering ideas and concepts
- Asking good questions
- Choosing a memory method that’s right for you
Are there other areas in which you can improve your academic performance? Write down other things you feel you need to work on.
How to Get There
Too many students try to get the grade just by going to class, maybe a little note taking, and then cramming right before an exam. Sound familiar? This approach may have worked for you in high school where tests and quizzes were more frequent and teachers prepared study guides for you, but colleges require you to take responsibility for your learning and to be better prepared.
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