Classroom 101: How to derive more from everyday class lectures?
Class lectures are the only hours where you get the chance to interact with your teacher directly. Paying attention during these few hours of the class can help you fetch high grades. So if you can make the most of the lectures being given, you would ace the assignment writing and secure top grades. I have listed some of the ways by which you can make the most of your lectures.
1. Read about the topic beforehand
Reading the topic before the lecture gives you a primary insight of the things that would be dealt with during the lecture. Not only that, if your teacher doesn’t explain the basics, still you would be able to understand the lecture. For this, follow the 3R technique, i.e.
· Read about the topic
· Recite the topic to your friend or in front of a mirror
· Review the topic by reading about it again.
This technique was found the most effective study technique according to a study by (McDaniel, Howard & Einstein, 2009).
2. Takedown proper notes of the lecture
There are five different note-taking systems, out of which Cornell’s is the most widely used. But the others are equally good.
(a) The outline method
(b) The Cornell method
© The mind map method and the flow method.
Whichever note-taking system you follow, you need to ensure that your notes are exhaustive and try to jot down as many points during the lecture as possible. While taking down notes, keep in mind that you should be able to understand it while revising. So, use bullet points and write the points in a logical order. Also, abbreviate and make the draft concise wherever possible.
3. Go through the previous day’s notes
It is very important to revise the previous lecture’s note on the topic and read about the various points in the notes online from multiple references. That way, you get an in-depth knowledge of every aspect dealt with in the class lectures. It would also help you in understanding the upcoming lecture.
4. Be a good listener; great notes will follow
It is often said that the things you hear are the ones that you can reproduce with perfection. You know the basic difference between an A-grade winner and one who performs poorly. It is all about listening and recording skills.
Games like Chinese whisper, Listen and jump, Magic sound etc. must be played by students. It not only improves listening skills but also enhances attention put by students in the class.
5. List question to participate
List questions on all areas you have doubt and participate in in-class lectures. Ask questions from your teacher frequently. That way he would give you more attention and address your queries during class lectures
6. Eat right
A diet that constitutes more of carbohydrates can overload your stomach and make you fall asleep. This can prove to be detrimental to your focus during the lectures. Therefore, you must follow a balanced diet before the lectures.
In the end, remember that you will not get belittled by asking questions. It doesn’t reflect your ignorance. So, don’t feel stupid if you do not know the answer to some basic questions and need to get them clarified. Your smartness or intelligence will reflect in grades you get, and you won’t be able to get good grades unless you resolve your simple queries from time to time. So be more proactive in class, raise your hands more and answer the questions asked by assignment experts. With trial and error, you will be able to make the best out of your class lectures.