Optimizing Learning in College: Tips From Cognitive Psychology.

Published on Sep 29, 2016in Perspectives on Psychological Science9.837
· DOI :10.1177/1745691616645770
Adam L. Putnam10
Estimated H-index: 10
 (Carleton College), Victor W. Sungkhasettee3
Estimated H-index: 3
 (WashU: Washington University in St. Louis), Henry L. Roediger117
Estimated H-index: 117
 (WashU: Washington University in St. Louis)
Sources
Abstract
Every fall, thousands of college students begin their first college courses, often in large lecture settings. Many students, even those who work hard, flounder. What should students be doing differently? Drawing on research in cognitive psychology and our experience as educators, we provide suggestions about how students should approach taking a course in college. We discuss time management techniques, identify the ineffective study strategies students often use, and suggest more effective strategies based on research in the lab and the classroom. In particular, we advise students to space their study sessions on a topic and to quiz themselves, as well as using other active learning strategies while reading. Our goal was to provide a framework for students to succeed in college classes.
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