• Unsuccessful (grades lower that they want ) student is unsure of facts, has little ability to put pieces and concepts together to solve problems. They typically put off work until the last minute, ask frequently for time extensions, and seldom work with a study group or partner. They spend < 1 hour per day in studying for each hour of lecture time and try to cram for the exams.

• Moderately successful students know most of the facts and can sometimes put pieces and concepts together to solve problems. They generally lack confidence in their problem-solving abilities, and are afraid to admit that they don’t know something, so don’t ask questions or come to the instructor for help. They do typically have a study partner or group. They try to spend 1 hour or more per day in studying for each hour of lecture time and try to increase study time close to the exam.

• The most successful students know all of the facts and can easily put this knowledge together to solve many different types of problems. This student will use learning tools, study groups, and the instructor to reach this level of proficiency. They are not afraid to be incorrect, and ask questions to clarify whatever they are unsure of. They spend multiple hours per day in studying for each hour of lecture time and increase study time close to the exam.

TOOLS FOR SUCCESS
1. Know Yourself: Play to your strengths when you study. Go to http://www.vark-learn.com/english/index.asp and take a simple, fast assessment quiz that will help you understand your learning styles. This website also has tips for effective studying for each learning style.


2. Do the Assigned Reading.
The assigned reading should at least be skimmed before coming to lecture, such as reading the paragraph headings and looking at pictures and diagrams.
Read the chapter thoroughly after the lecture. It is usually necessary to read chapters in the text several times. There is too much information to absorb in one, or even two, readings.
Somes tudents find it useful to make flashcards in a course where there is a great deal of detailed, highly specific information to learn.
Concept maps can be drawn as a study tool for understanding process and mechanisms.

3. Attend lectures and take notes. You may bring a recording device to record lectures if you wish.

4. Re-write and re-organize your lecture notes as soon as possible after the lecture. Studies have shown that notes taken during a lecture are only about 70% accurate. Double check your information!

5. Write down your questions as you read the chapter assignments and rewrite your lecture notes. Make sure that your questions are answered during lecture, office hours, or in a study group.

6. Go over the Study Questions at the end of each chapter that pertain to the reading assigned as well as to the content provided in lecture. Do all the practice questions given and know why the right answer is the right answer.

7. Form a study group with two or three other students. Not only is this a beneficial means to review and clarify the course information, it is an excellent way to get to know your classmates.

8. Talk to the instructor regarding your questions either in class, during office hours.

9. Try to be an effective in your academic strategies, use this recommended guide.