Study Skills: Classes
You will get more out of the classes you attend if you prepare beforehand. In class, listen actively and try to participate - ask questions if you're not sure of something that has been said. Take notes - you will need to identify a form of note-taking that works well for you. Review your notes soon afterwards.
Here are some ideas for you to get the most of out of your classes. Perhaps not everything is feasible, but the important thing is to find some kind of routine that works for you.
Some of what is described below applies to practical classes and on-the-job training. If you can make notes during work, then do so, and write up your experiences afterwards.
Before class:
- Be on time!
- If you know the content of the class, think about how it relates to the module/course as a whole.
- Complete any required reading for the class. If there is no required reading, think about doing some reading up on the topic being covered - if there's any words or phrases you don't know, look them up.
- Make sure that you have note-taking equipment - paper, pens, or fully charged device - ready to use
- If handouts or slides are available, print them and take them with you to class
- Think of any questions that you might want to ask.
- If you're hungry, have a quick snack - don't be distracted by hunger pangs once you're in class
During class:
- Choose a seat where
- you can hear what is being said and see the board clearly
- you can concentrate on the class
- Listen to what is being said
- As with reading, look out for topic sentences and cue words signposting important points
- Don't write everything down - cover only the main themes and topics.
After class:
- If you're unclear about anything said, ask your tutor
- Read through your notes and expand them if necessary. Do this as soon as you get the chance
- Organise your notes neatly in a ring binder or folder. Write/type a cover sheet that has
- date of class
- topic of class
- tutor's name
- module/course name
- Don't just file your notes and forget them. Look at them on a regular (weekly is good) basis. The more you do this, the more likely it is that you'll remember them!
