Teach to Actively Learn
By Svetlana Tkachenko, Accounting, Class of 2009
I study best in a quiet place. I found that not listening to music actually helps--as well as staying away from my computer at all costs. The most success I've had is actually leaving my room--and studying in the K S Library early in the morning before my classes and work. I check out a laptop from the Freedman Center if I need a computer--which means it doesn't have any of my music or programs--so I fool around less.
I also found that I'm most effective if I go to bed early and get up around 6 to finish everything. I get better grades on my homework if I don't do it when I'm exhausted at night.
Also, it is helpful to keep reminding myself to focus if I'm memorizing material and to be active in the process instead of just looking at the words. I also recommend saying things aloud and asking after every concept whether I understand it and whether I could teach it to somebody else that has no background in the area. I find that if I can teach a topic, I understand it better. It takes a lot less time, but things actually stick--so it becomes even more motivating in the end to see results.
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