STUDY SKILLS CLASSROOM SURVIVAL
There is more to learning than memorising facts. Learning how to learn can
be challenging and enjoyable. It requires more than taking notes and reading
texts - you have to learn to survive in the classroom. This means learning
active classroom behaviour. If you sit passively taking lecture notes you
could be replaced by a tape recorder. Instead become an active participant
in the classroom and let your lecturer know that you are interested and
involved.
A.
Asking questions
Lecturers encourage students to ask questions.
They perceive your
questions as an indication of your willingness and motivation to learn.
Asking questions can stimulate both the lecture and the students in the
learning process however, learning is also about finding answers yourself.
Points to remember:
1.
You are responsible for your own learning - it is up to you to succeed.
2.
You have the right to say “I don’t understand”. Clarifying an issue may
help others in the class who also don’t understand but won’t admit it.
3.
If you don’t understand the answer to your question don’t say you do
and remain confused. Ask Lecturer to explain.
4.
Lecturers can’t read your mind. They need to know when you don’t
understand and when clarification is needed.
5.
The best time for questions may be before, during or after class.
6.
Write your question down. The answer maybe covered during the
lesson.
7.
Questions give feedback to the lecturer about what clarification is
needed.
8.
Lecturers are only one resource for the answers to questions. Seek
clarification in books, on web or ask the librarian for help. They might not
solve your problem, but might tell you where to find the answer.
If you’re not asking questions in class, think about these statements:
 I don’t want to impose
 If I ask, the lecturer (and the whole class) might think I’m stupid
 If I ask a question which challenges the lecturer, it might go against me.
 Lecturers don’t care what I have to say
If you find that these kinds of inhibitions are affecting your grades, you may
need to find ways of overcoming them. One possibility is to talk with a
lecturer, other students or friends, the Counsellor or Wellbeing Centre on
Campus.
B.
Important ways to improve learning and get better results.
There are many things students can do to improve their chances of doing well
in class:
 Be attentive in class. Show the lecturer you are interested in learning
 Be prepared by pre-reading text before class to understand the lecture
 Being enthusiastic and interested has a positive effect on the lecturer’s
attitude towards you.
 Know the subject syllabus, the aims and objectives of each unit.
 Form study groups with other students in your class to discuss relevant
topics, check notes, bounce ideas off each other.
 Attend classes. You can’t learn if you are not there.
C.
Understanding the lecturer
 Know the expectations of your lecturer.
 Think of the lecturer as a person who cares about what he/she is doing.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
If you need assistance with study skills, help is available to you. Come
to see us at Student Support, at Perth Campus.
Books, tapes, videos etc are available on study skills, self esteem and
personal development at the library. There are also On-line courses and
exercises available – google “Study Skills” to find these resources.
This information has been provided by:
The Psychologist
Central Institute of Technology
Student Support
25 Aberdeen Street
Northbridge WA 6003
Phone: (08) 9427 1893