The Best Research-Based Study Methods - Part 2

Summary

This video discusses effective cognitive learning strategies, particularly for retaining and processing information over time, especially before a test. Key strategies include redefining and rephrasing information in your own words to ensure understanding, reflecting on what you have learned after study sessions, reviewing materials thoroughly and with purpose, and mimicking how you will be assessed, such as using flashcards, quizzes, or essay prompts. These methods are essential for deeper learning and better preparation, encouraging students to identify gaps in their knowledge and plan for more intentional study sessions.

Takeaways

• 📝 Rephrasing and redefining information in your own words helps ensure understanding and retention.
• 💡 If you're unable to rephrase something, it indicates a gap in understanding that requires further attention.
• 🤔 Reflection is a powerful strategy for summarizing what you've learned and identifying areas that need more focus.
• 🧠 Writing a short summary or creating bullet points after studying or attending lectures helps solidify understanding.
• ⏳ Review materials with purpose and ample time, not just because you need to for a test.
• 📚 Deep reading of past readings, quizzes, tests, and feedback is crucial for thorough understanding.
• 🧐 Pay special attention to faculty feedback, whether given directly or to others, as it offers key insights.
• 🔄 Mimic the way you'll be assessed by practicing test-like scenarios, such as flashcards, multiple-choice tests, or essay writing.
• 👫 Practicing with peers can provide a more well-rounded understanding of the material by highlighting different perspectives.
• 🚀 Preparing for assessments over time, rather than cramming, results in deeper learning and better test performance.

Q & A

What is the first strategy mentioned for effective review in cognitive learning?

The first strategy mentioned is redefining and rephrasing. This involves putting new information into your own words, ensuring that you truly understand it. If you struggle to rephrase it, it indicates that you don't fully grasp the material and may need help.

Why is reflection considered an important review strategy?

Reflection is important because it helps solidify what you've learned by summarizing your understanding and identifying what you do and do not know. This self-assessment helps create a plan for future study and review.

How can students implement reflection effectively?

Students can implement reflection by writing a brief summary, a few bullet points, or a couple of sentences after each study session, lecture, or group activity. This helps them assess where they stand in their learning and what they need to revisit.

What does the speaker mean by reviewing 'with purpose and intention'?

Reviewing 'with purpose and intention' means studying not just to complete the task, but with a deliberate effort to deeply understand the material. This involves giving yourself enough time to thoroughly review readings, notes, quizzes, feedback, and other relevant materials.

Why is it important to review feedback from faculty?

It’s important to review faculty feedback because it helps students understand where they may have made mistakes or what they can improve. Feedback can also offer insights into how instructors evaluate work, which can help students prepare better for future assessments.

What should students focus on when reviewing old materials?

Students should focus on a wide range of materials, including past readings, quizzes, tests, group projects, discussion posts, and especially faculty feedback. This ensures they don't miss important details or nuances of the lessons.

How can mimicking assessment methods aid in learning?

Mimicking assessment methods helps students prepare for how they will be tested. By practicing through flashcards, multiple-choice questions, or essay writing exercises, students can familiarize themselves with the format and structure of the actual exam.

What is the advantage of practicing with friends?

Practicing with friends provides a broader perspective, as each person may emphasize different aspects of the material. This collective review gives a more rounded understanding of what might be important for the test.

What should students do if they have difficulty summarizing what they've learned?

If students have difficulty summarizing, it indicates that the information hasn't 'stuck' yet. They should revisit and review the material to ensure they have a stronger understanding.

Why is it important to review over time rather than the day before a test?

Reviewing over time allows for deeper processing of the material, helping to solidify the information in long-term memory. Cramming the day before a test often results in shallow learning and a higher chance of forgetting key concepts.