LEARNING STYLES

Strategic studying and test taking tips

Today…

A little neurophysiology What are the different learning styles? What’s my style? How can I maximize my learning? How can I get the most out of my

studying?

Neuroanatomy

Brain function contributes to learning style Brain stem – controls basic functions Cerebellum – balance and coordination Cerebrum – high-level functions

Left – language and logical thinking, right side mvt

Right – nonverbal processes, imagination, left side mvt

Neurophysiology

Cellular level Neurons receive & send

Creating new connections Connections strengthen with

practice Continues with new learning

Primary learning styles Visual Auditory Bodily-kinesthetic

Visual Read Watch demonstrations

Auditory Sounds good to

me….. Discussions Lectures Q/A sessions Giving speeches Reading aloud Study groups Recorded lectures

Bodily-kinesthetic Learn by doing!

Labs Volunteer for demonstrations Group projects Assistance Tutor

Secondary learning styles Individual Group Oral expressive Written expressive Sequential Global

Individual Perspective Comparing w/previous

experience Reflecting

Group Collaborative learner

Oral – Written Expressive Ask questions Answer questions Explanations Discussion

Writes opinions Written insights

Global learners Big picture thinkers Relating concepts Likes analogies Suggestions:

Summarize Diagrams to relate to “big

picture” Write down questions

Sequential learners Detailed information in logical pattern Good outlines Read directions first! Suggestions:

Summarize w/bullets Draw diagrams to show relationships To-do list! Examples

Strategic studying Note-taking

Review text & create outline Class notes

Shorthand/abbreviations Organize to fit Diagrams! Neatness counts Leave spaces Read over ASAP!

Note-taking styles Outline Asymmetrical columns Compare-contrast Concept maps conce

pt

Strategic studying Location Focus Set goals

Memory skills Memory skills

Registration Reception – taking in Perception – recognition Selection - remembering

Short term – 5 to 9 chunks Long term – organize & store

Recall & use!

Strategies that work Group review Diagrams! Set goals Fresh mind Short time blocks – take breaks No procrastination allowed

Maggie says……”Toto, we’re not in Kansas……

Katiebelle says…..“What Maggie means is that this is not high school.”