By Daizjah Shannon
Active learning techniques like summarizing, note-taking, and quizzing help you engage with the material and remember it better. These techniques are adaptive because they help you retain important information for future use. Active learning techniques can be used in a variety of ways to help improve your learning and retention of information, such as.
- Teach someone else: Teaching someone else is an active learning technique that can help you retain information better. When you explain a concept to someone else, you have to organize your thoughts and articulate your ideas clearly, which can help you understand the material better.
- Use flashcards: Flashcards are a popular active learning technique because they help you memorize information. When you use flashcards, you can quiz yourself on key concepts and definitions, which can help you remember them later.
- Take practice tests: Taking practice tests is an active learning technique that can help you prepare for exams. When you take a practice test, you can identify areas where you need to study more and get a sense of what the real exam will be like.
- Use mnemonics: Mnemonics are memory aids that can help you remember information more easily. For example, you might use a mnemonic like “ROY G BIV” to remember the colors of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet).
- Use technology: Technology can be a powerful tool for active learning. For example, you might use an app like Quizlet to create flashcards or take practice tests, or use a note-taking app like Evernote to organize your study materials.
By using active learning techniques like these, you can help improve your learning and retention of information, and ultimately be more successful in college.
Example of adaptive value to improve your learning
- Take breaks: Taking breaks is an adaptive behavior because it helps you avoid burnout and stay motivated. When you take a break, your brain has time to rest and recharge, which can help you be more productive when you return to your studies.
- Find a study group: Studying with others is an adaptive behavior because it helps you learn from different perspectives and stay motivated. When you work with others, you can share ideas and ask questions, which can help you understand the material better.
- Use a planner: Using a planner is an adaptive behavior because it helps you stay organized and manage your time effectively. When you plan out your study time, you can make sure you’re spending enough time on each subject and avoid cramming at the last minute.
- Don’t procrastinate: Procrastination is a maladaptive behavior because it can lead to stress and poor performance. When you procrastinate, you’re more likely to rush through your work and make mistakes. Instead, try to break your work down into smaller, manageable tasks and tackle them one at a time.
As an incoming freshman, you’re about to embark on an exciting new chapter in your life. College is a time of growth, learning, and exploration, and I’m sure you’re eager to get started.One of the most important things you can do to prepare for college is to get organized. Take some time to review your class schedule and make sure you have all the books and materials you need. Consider setting up a study schedule to help you stay on track with your coursework.Another key to success in college is to take advantage of the resources available to you. Your college likely has a variety of academic support services, such as tutoring, writing centers, and study groups. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. College is also a great time to get involved in extracurricular activities. Joining a club or organization can help you meet new people, develop new skills, and explore your interests. Finally, remember to take care of yourself. College can be stressful, so make sure to prioritize your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat well, and make time for exercise and relaxation.I hope these tips help you feel more prepared for college. Remember, college is a time of growth and learning, so don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. I wish you all the best in your college journey!
Resources
“Adaptive value of social learning in changing environments” Laland, K.N., Kendal, J.R., & Kendal, R.L. Trends in Ecology & Evolution
“The original of species” by Charles Darwin
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9362505/
“The Social Leap” by William von Hippel