Prompt 1: What are some current beliefs that you have of what you consider to be good study habits? How do these beliefs contrast with what Stephen Chew says are good study habits?
Good study habits include finding a good location and highlighting important sections; however, I believe that motivation is the key element to studying well. Without good motivation, you cannot focus, and I would argue it is the greatest factor to studying at all, let alone studying well. When I am not motivated, I tend to get distracted from my work very easily, such as just now (there was a 30 minute break in order to acquire a late night snack). Chew seems to argue that intent to study doesn’t have much of an effect at all. He introduces a study that shows us that intent to learn has virtually no effect upon the results. It appears as though my motivation, or my intent to learn, statistically has no real effect upon the quality of my learning. Chew also introduces interesting concepts of Deep Processing vs. Shallow Processing. Shallow processing is similar to the phrase “in one ear, and out the other”, in that you learn virtually nothing substantial from it. An example of this would be when I’m copying notes – and doing only that: when class becomes a dictation exercise. Naturally, I get little out of it other than notes. Deep processing is the opposite. Deep processing would mean actually paying attention and being an active learner. An example of this would be better highlighting. Instead of only highlighting the bold definitions, Chew suggests reading the passage and highlighting important words and phrases instead.
Prompt 2: What deep processing techniques can you use in class, while reading, and while studying to ensure that you understand and “overlearn” the material? (Be specific and detailed.)
Deep processing techniques are essential to effectively learn. My favorite technique Chew suggested was the concept of applying what you’re learning to yourself. This is one technique I have used in the past to great effect, if I have a personal investment in what I’m learning; I find that I can recall it faster and with greater detail. One way in which I do this is to formulate examples that are applicable to me personally-which is usually fairly easy to do. A second concept he stresses is studying for something in the same manner in which you will be tested. So, if you will be tested on definitions, you should use flash cards. However, if you will be tested with essay questions, you should close your book and notes and try to see how much you can recall.
psy100 