The Last Three Requirements for Learning – Recitation, Repetition and Timing

In the last blog we looked at different ways to add variety to your learning through various senses (visual, auditory and touch/movement).  There are three more things to consider that are vitally important:

 Repetition
Learning does not happen after just one exposure to the material – it takes many!  You already know this – before auto dial on our cell phones, how often did you have to dial someone’s number before you could remember it?  And now, because you do not have to repeatedly dial the number you probably don’t know anyone’s from memory!  Adding repetition is easy:

·         Review your notes after every class. 
·         Periodically review all the notes that will be on the test. 
·         Use different strategies as you study.
·         Make study cards for the most difficult information and review them 20 minutes almost every day. 
·         Go to tutoring.
·         Go to all of your classes. 

Timing – It takes repetition spaced out over time for the information to get firmly in your long- term memory.  Again:

·         Review your notes after every class. 
·         Start to actively study about a week before an exam.
·         Take advantage of any review opportunity offered by your professor.
·         Go to tutoring or Supplemental Instruction sessions.

Recitation – this is “restating the information in your own words from memory.”  You must practice getting the information out of your long-term memory just like you will have to do on the exam.  So rereading is not enough – you have to actively test yourself.  How? 

·         Study cards (look at front, think about the information on the back, check yourself, keep going over the ones you missed, tomorrow do it again). 
·         When you are reviewing your notes, cover the page you just read and see what you can remember.  Check yourself and do it again if nor correct or complete. 
·         Join a study group and quiz each other. 
·         Make practice tests and share with friends. 
·         Make a study guide and then cover the information and recall.

These strategies really are quite easy and logical.  All you need is to manage your time and your priorities so that you do them!  Sounds easy, but sometimes it is hard.  Next week we will look at how to make sure you are doing the important things that will lead you to success!

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First Semester Success: Learning Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is available at amazon.com, wordassociation.com and barnesandnoble.com.  Click on the upper right link.