Student Life: Techniques for Effective Learning

    The exam period is upon us, and it is safe to say that our common goal is to pass as many exams as possible before the summer break, and ideally face the fall exams - if not with all exams passed, then at least with the majority. However, as usual, as the semester just ended, we are tired from university obligations and we want to enjoy the sunny days rather than spend them studying.

Drawing from my own experience and conversations with colleagues and other scholarship recipients, here are several learning techniques that will increase your productivity, shorten study time, and prepare you successfully for exams.

1. 3-Step Technique When I started my studies, I assumed there would be a vast amount of literature waiting for me, but I didn't think much about how to tackle it. With the first lectures came the first fears. However, I soon found a technique that suited me best and proved to be most effective. I named it the three-step technique because it consists of three parts: highlighting the material, reciting, and reviewing. I underline the literature (usually with different colors) and read through the entire material once. After that, I try to recite each exam question out loud, or if I'm studying in the library, quietly to myself without looking at the book. Finally, two to three days before the exam, I go through all exam questions once more, focusing on the parts I found most challenging during recitation. The day before the exam, if time allows, I listen to specific videos or podcasts related to the material.

2. Feynman Technique This learning technique is named after physicist Richard Feynman and involves learning by explaining a topic to someone with no prior knowledge of it. First, choose a question and write down its explanation, striving to use simple words and sentences. Afterward, identify concepts that you had trouble explaining and research them further so you can explain them as well. This technique helps in understanding the material rather than just memorizing it.

3. Mind Maps  If you have good visual memory, this will be an ideal technique for you. The idea is to have a central concept and draw branches from it representing related terms. Each branch can have its own sub-branches, and in any case, use different colors, drawings, and images. Although they may take time, according to research, this is one of the most effective techniques.

4. Pomodoro Technique Strictly speaking, this isn't a learning technique but a time management technique, but you'll agree - time organization is our greatest enemy. This technique involves studying in intervals of 25 minutes, followed by a short break of 5 minutes. After four such intervals, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. Studies have shown that shorter study periods are more effective and help maintain concentration and prevent fatigue.
 
We recommend experimenting and trying out different techniques until you find the one that suits you. In this process, you can also combine and adapt techniques to fit your individual needs and available time. Set clear goals, create a study schedule, and always remember that there is no universal technique or perfect knowledge.
 
Good luck!
 
Author:
Katarina Klisura