The learning Process
Learning goals:
We will explore two skills you probably think you already perform well—reading and note-taking. But first we will discuss what learning is and why the processes of reading and taking notes are integral to the learning process. The goal of this chapter, and your continued improvement on these skills, is to make sure you’ve honed them well enough to lead you to success in college. By the time you finish this chapter, you should be able to do the following:
– Describe the learning process and how reading and note-taking are an important part of it.
– Discuss the way reading differs in college and how to successfully adapt to that change.
– Demonstrate the usefulness of strong note-taking while reading and during a lecture.
Resources:
https://openstax.org/books/preparing-for-college-success/pages/4-introduction
Learning activities:
Day 1: Understanding the Learning Process
Introduction (15 minutes):
Begin with a discussion about students’ aspirations for college and why they want to pursue higher education.
Ask students if they know what the learning process in college entails.
Activity 1: Learning Styles Discussion (25 minutes):
Explain the concept of different learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and read/write.
Engage students in a class discussion about how they believe their learning style might influence their college experience.
Encourage them to share their thoughts and experiences related to their learning style.
Activity 2: Learning Process in College (20 minutes):
Discuss the stages of the learning process in college: acquiring knowledge, applying knowledge, analyzing and evaluating, and creating or synthesizing.
Emphasize the importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability in the learning process.
Homework (if applicable):
Ask students to reflect on their learning style and think about how they can leverage it to succeed in college.
Day 2: Preparing for the Learning Process in College
Introduction (10 minutes):
Review the previous day’s discussions about learning styles and the learning process.
Discuss why it’s essential to be aware of one’s learning style when preparing for college.
Activity 1: College Survival Tips Discussion (25 minutes):
List a few college survival tips on the board (e.g., time management, active participation in class, seeking help when needed).
Lead a class discussion about the importance of each tip and how it can help students succeed in college.
Encourage students to share their own survival tips based on their experiences or research.
Activity 2: Study Habits Self-Assessment (20 minutes):
Discuss the significance of effective study habits.
Ask students to self-assess their current study habits and identify areas where they can improve.
Encourage them to share their self-assessment results or insights with a partner.
Activity 3: Creating a Personal Learning Plan (15 minutes):
Instruct students to create a personal learning plan on a piece of paper or in their notebooks. This plan should include strategies for utilizing their learning style and improving their study habits.
Provide time for them to work on this plan individually.
Conclusion (10 minutes):
Have a class discussion about the importance of self-awareness and adaptability in the learning process.
Encourage students to start implementing their personal learning plans and college survival tips right away.