Tips for Success In Class!

Since we are at mid-semester and Midterm Grade Estimates were recently given out, I wanted to provide some guidance and tips to improve your grade in this class (any class really!).  Here are my "Top Ten" recommendations:

1.    Go to class (and be there on time!) and try to stay focused during the class.  Active LISTENING is a learned skill.

2.   Take your own notes during class (even if lecture outlines/PowerPoints are  

      provided).  

3.   Do the required reading BEFORE the class in which that topic will be discussed.  Make notes as you read about how the material is relevant to you/your life, or questions that you have.

4.   Ask questions during the class if you have questions about the material being presented.

 5.  Spend some time during the week reviewing your notes and class materials.  It is

      always a good idea to do a first review AS SOON AFTER THE CLASS as

      possible.  That way you can clarify things when they are fresh in your mind.  You

      should do a few reviews each week to keep the material current.  As much as you

      can, put notes in your own words and try to link the theories/terms to examples

      that are meaningful to you.

6.   If a study guide is provided, review the study guide questions for each chapter BEFORE you read that chapter.  Make notes on the study guide as to where the information is located in the chapter.  It never hurts to write out answers to the questions on a study guide.  The more you work with the information, the easier it will be for you to remember it.   It may seem tedious, but just the act of writing/re-writing your notes or answers can help to imprint the information in your mind.   Think of all the songs that you know ALL the words to…in order to memorize all the lyrics, you have to listen to the song over and over.  It’s the same principle. 

7.  You may find it helpful to make flash cards for review.  Write the term, person, theory, etc. on one side of the card (index cards are good to use) with the definition, description or significance of the person on the back.  Carry them with you and do little mini-reviews whenever you find yourself with some time on your hands!  More and more textbooks are including online resources like flash cards.

 

8.  Utilize all resources provided for you in a class.  This includes your textbook, study guides, outlines, handouts, PowerPoints, online activities/exercises, practice quizzes, etc.  Your instructor is also a resource.  Always ask questions if you don’t understand something!

9.  Utilize the Academic Support Center.  This is a wonderful FREE resource for students.  The ASC can provide tutoring in various subjects (sociology included), specific information regarding things like:  effectively reading a college textbook, taking good notes, how to study for a test, relieving test anxiety, etc.  

10.  Take responsibility as a student.  For those of you new to college, you are considered an adult and you have responsibility to do your work and put the time and effort necessary into preparation and completion of assignments.  It is not (nor should it be) EASY to get a high grade in a class.  It does take time and effort and preparation.  Anything worth having in life is worth working for.  If you want to get a good grade in a class, put in the work necessary to achieve your goal and always be proud of your accomplishments!