Another semester at BYU has started and the learning begins. I often wonder if I am taking certain classes so that I can learn, or so it will fill a requirement. The answer for me is probably a little of both. I take different subjects for different reasons. I have been compliant with doing the bare minimum in order to get an "A" regardless of my level of learning. My goal this semester is to learn as much as possible from every class no matter the subject.
I am currently in a effective study and learning course this semester at BYU. The primary reason I am taking this class is so that I can keep my scholarship. The first two days proved to me that I can learn a lot from taking this class. I learned that I tend to cram for tests and forget the information shortly after. I do not forget all the information, but my retention is lacking. I learned that in order to truly learn the material I need to study it consistently throughout the semester. By doing this I won't need to cram for tests, and I will be able to retain the information covered for a longer time.
I learned that I procrastinate and that I am lazy when it comes to studying for classes I am not really interested in. Only 5 days have past and I have completed one assignment and two readings. I have a long way to go in order to catch up with all my work. The worst thing about this situation is that yesterday I did not do one thing. I worked, got home, and watched Netflix with my wife until bedtime. I will be able to complete all my readings and assignments this weekend, but it will be crammed. I learned that I need to motivate myself in order to get my work done in a timely matter.
I think everyone falls into the trap of just going through school for the grade. But the point of the grade is to motivate us. If everyone just cared about learning then there would be no point to be tested. But it is true that grades and diploma's are not the most effective way to learn. Some things that I think help, is to make comments in class, try to study subject matter before lectures and so on. At the end of the day there are going to be classes that we will love and those that we need to just get through, it's just life.
ReplyDeleteI think Cameron is right. I started commenting/participating more in MCOM and found that not only do I like the class more, but I am learning more.
ReplyDeleteI also feel it is a good thing to study topics that interest you. I am starting to try this out more and I have enjoyed my experiences -- or at least I feel better.
To be honest, I have learned plenty of useful things in school but the majority of useful knowledge comes from interacting with my fellow students. This is one of main reasons why I love my major (Public health) because the classes are very project based. This is the start of my 3rd year at BYU and so far it is the most fun and rewarding.
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