Effective learning at University series
Task completion
University tasks are often large, fairly loosely described, and worth a lot of marks! Getting a good mark, and learning something useful at the same time is not a matter of chance.
Task analysis Be sure that you know what the task involves. Ask question to determine the objectives and marking criteria. This will:
- Maintain an overview while you complete the task - you are less likely to waste time on unnecessary work.
- Maintain motivation - uncertainty is a real wet-blanket.
- Maximise learning and marks, minimise time and energy invested.
Bite sized bits (BSBs) - All tasks broken down into highly specific components with clear endpoints. Tick them off as you achieve them, and add them to your Tumbling TimeTable (TTT).
- Keeps task relevant to objectives
- Reduces time wasted on embellishments or “red herrings”
- Improves motivation - to initiate tasks, and when each BSB is “struck off” when complete.
Planning concept maps - Used to organise ideas before writing.
- Keeps control of all ideas
- Helps to maintain a balanced response
- Ensures all criteria will be met before committing large amounts of time.
- Promotes linking and constructed understanding
Easy, hard, easy. - Start with a specific, well defined task when you sit down to work, and once involved move to the hardest one. Always finish with an easy task to leave a positive mental image. It is easier to sit down and start again if you last got up feeling good about your work and yourself.
Make a list of tasks for the next session at the end of a work session. Create a list of Bite Sized Bits that you will start off on when you next sit down.
- Leaves you with a sense of control over the work.
- Your mind reflects on the tasks in the interim and you will find them easier to start, and that you already have some ideas available.
[Home] [IMAC Staff] [Current Research] [Publications] [Student Resources] [Teacher Resources ] [Useful Links]
IMAC Education Pty Ltd.
ACN 069 479 036