Learning is all About Strategy

Get the Most Out of Class Time

1. Eat (something healthy) and use the restroom before class.  You don't want to be distracted by hunger or the need to leave during lecture.

2. Sit toward the front of the classroom. You will stay more alert and there is research that shows you will probably get better grades.

3. Read scheduled materials/concepts before going to class. This way, lectures will make more sense because you should be a familiar with key words and concepts. And you will take better notes since you will have a better understanding of the subject.

4. Listen for and note key concepts and themes. Try to get the big picture. Avoid trying to write down everything the professor says.  Ask to use a recorder (review recorded lesson with the notes you took in class).

5. Take part in any discussions that develop. Let the professor get to know you through in-class discussions or at his/her office. Their office hours are there to allow you access and help you learn the material. 

Study Tips

1. Study at the time when you are most alert.

2. Do your toughest work first while concepts are still fresh in your mind.

3. Set realistic, daily study goals. Time Management and organization is critical to keeping up with and preparing for assignments and upcoming exams.

4. Spread out your studying. Do not try to do everything at once or by yourself.  Utilize FREE workshops and resources on campus to help you.

5. Review notes as soon as possible after class. 

6. Do not be afraid to write in your textbooks. Underlining, highlighting, and writing in the margins are useful ways to emphasize points or to remind yourself of questions to ask in class.

7. Studying with Tutors is a helpful way to verbalize your own ideas and listen to those of others. It will help you to better remember material and understand concepts. Contact the Learning Assistance Center 719.502.3444.

8. Re-write your class notes. This will make them neater and more organized and will serve as another cycle of repetition in the study process. You may also find it useful to integrate your class notes with assigned readings.

9. Do not take things for granted. Develop critical thinking skills by asking yourself: What if? Why? How? etc. If there are equations or graphs to be studied, ask yourself what kind of information these are presenting.  You are in COLLEGE now, learning is different than in your previous experience with education.

10. A good rule of thumb is a 10 minute break for every 40 minutes of study.

And, finally...ENJOY it.  Learning is easier when you like and appreciate the subject you are trying to learn. 

Tutors are successful in their classes because they enjoy learning and we want to help you reach your academic potential. 

Tutoring and Workshop Schedules

Learning Assistance Centers
Centennial Campus, Room A-212
Phone:  719.502.3444
 Fax:  719.502.3445