how can you become a more active learner as you take this course

by Mr. Ignacio Muller Jr. 6 min read

Take initiative by reading materials, reaching out to classmates and instructors, and conducting additional research as needed. Productive online learners focus on acquiring and utilizing feedback for future coursework. Students who take time to engage with their instructors and classmates also tend to have the most success in their classes.

To become an active learner, here's some techniques that you could try:
  1. write down what you already know.
  2. ask questions as you read.
  3. make notes of the main points in your own words.
  4. summarise what you read.
  5. explain what you have learned to someone else.
  6. complete all your course activities, not just the reading.

Full Answer

How do you become an active learner?

HOW TO BECOME AN ACTIVE LEARNER 1. Prepare. a) Before each class, do the assigned readings. Take notes and actively engage with the reading material by relating it to everyday life. b) Review the lecture material from the previous class.

How can I become a more effective learner?

Start by focusing your attention on the task at hand and continue working for a predetermined amount of time. Becoming a more effective learner can take time, and it always takes practice and determination to establish new habits. Start by focusing on just a few of these tips to see if you can get more out of your next study session.

Are your active learning strategies different for different types of learners?

As many of the techniques above are open-ended, the active learning strategies underpinning them may differentiate for different types of learners. Be sure to consider how you can differentiate instruction while still enjoying the benefits of these active learning strategies.

What is active learning and how can it help you?

It’s about working smarter, not harder, and this is what active learning can help us do. So let’s take a look at some ways you can take an active approach to your study, and be on your way to great results.

What to do before attending a class?

“Make sure you do any reading, assignments and prep work before attending the class. Don't just do the minimum, but come prepared to be part of the class discussion that night.” (Kirk, 2008)

When to take notes?

To take notes, you have to be listening and engaged with what is being said. It's especially important to take notes in your practical classes. You might never see what is being demonstrated again.

What to do if you don't understand something?

Seek learning: Don't just sit back & expect everything to be given to you: If you don't understand something investigate the answer. The answer to almost every question is just a well worded Google search away. Another alternative is sending your query to the class email group.

How to acquire a new skill?

If you are trying to acquire a new skill or ability, focus on gaining practical experience. If it is a sport or athletic skill, perform the activity on a regular basis. If you are learning a new language, practice speaking with another person and surround yourself with language-immersion experiences.

Why is speed of learning important?

If you are like many students, your time is limited so it is important to get the most educational value out of the time you have available. Speed of learning is not the only important factor, however. Students need to be able to accurately remember the information they learn, recall it at a later time, and utilize it effectively in ...

Why is it important to practice a new language?

So, if you are learning a new language, it is important to keep practicing the language in order to maintain the gains you have achieved. This "use-it-or-lose-it" phenomenon involves a brain process known as "pruning.". Certain pathways in the brain are maintained, while others are eliminated. If you want the new information you just learned ...

Who is Amy Morin?

Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a psychotherapist, the author of the bestselling book "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," and the host of The Verywell Mind Podcast. Learn about our Review Board. Amy Morin, LCSW. on May 25, 2020.

Who is Kendra Cherry?

Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author, educational consultant, and speaker focused on helping students learn about psychology. Amy Morin, LCSW, is the Editor-in-Chief of Verywell Mind. She's also a psychotherapist, the author of the bestselling book "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," and the host of The Verywell Mind Podcast. ...

Is learning a perfect process?

Of course, learning isn’t a perfect process. Sometimes, we forget the details of things that we have already learned. If you find yourself struggling to recall some tidbit of information, research suggests that you are better offer simply looking up the correct answer.

Does multitasking make learning less effective?

However, research now suggests that multitasking can actually make learning less effective.

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