Our environment has a major impact on the way we learn and our ability to focus, engage and digest and retain information. To optimize outcomes, it’s important to create a positive environment. In this article, we’ll outline some simple ways to ensure you make the most of your college learning experience.
Find a quiet place
It can be difficult enough to concentrate and solve complex problems without throwing in background noise. One of the most important steps to take when you’re studying is to find a quiet place where you can focus. Whether you’re studying on campus between classes, or you’re back in your accommodation, set up a base in a tranquil setting. Go to the library or make use of private study spaces and create a quiet zone in your room. If you share a room with others, it’s a good idea to communicate openly and come up with a schedule or regimen so that everyone has the option to study in peace. If you’re in a noisy setting, and you can’t find anywhere for silent study, use noise-canceling headphones, listen to a soothing playlist or wear earplugs.
Avoid distractions
We live in a world where distractions come in all kinds of forms and guises. Technology can help us study, but it can also hinder us. If your phone keeps lighting up or making noises, the TV is on, or notifications are popping up on your laptop, it can be difficult to concentrate. Other people can also be a distraction. When you’re studying, it’s hugely beneficial to try to avoid distractions. Adjust the settings on your computer to silence or block notifications, turn your phone on to silent or put it in your desk drawer for an hour, turn the TV off and ask people to leave you alone for a bit while you get on with an assignment. It’s best to try to learn in an environment where it’s easy to focus. Studying in cafes, for example, is not ideal because they tend to be loud, people come and go continuously, and there may be traffic outside.
Make use of study support and resources
Your learning environment is not just a physical space. It covers the support system around you and the measures in place to help you study, expand your knowledge base and build confidence. To boost performance and achieve the best results, make use of study support and the resources that are available to you. From online worksheets and practice assignments and exams to seminars, webinars, one-to-one tutorials and guided learning, there are all kinds of ways to enhance the learning experience and access support. It’s particularly important to seek advice or utilize resources if you’re struggling with a certain topic or concept, or you’re finding it hard to digest information or tackle a specific assignment. There is help available, and asking for advice can provide clarity and reassurance.
Maximize natural light
Natural light is proven to increase energy levels and productivity. If you’re studying at home or in your dorm, angle your desk towards a window or door to maximize natural light. If you’re going to the library, choose a table that’s close to windows and doors and avoid dark, cramped spaces.
Establish a personalized routine
Establishing a routine is an excellent way to manage your time and workload and reduce stress. It’s important to personalize your regimen to suit your requirements and preferences and play to your strengths. If you’re a morning person, and you’re full of energy and enthusiasm at the start of the day, tackle the hardest tasks on your to-do list in the morning. If you don’t feel fully energized and alert until the afternoon, schedule study sessions during this part of the day. Everyone is different so it’s beneficial to create bespoke plans where possible.
Take regular breaks
It’s understandable to think that the longer you study, the harder you work and the better you perform. In reality, working for long periods can hamper productivity and increase the risk of burnout and loss of concentration. Taking regular breaks will help you to stay motivated, increase energy levels and reduce stress. Aim to work smarter and make the most of the time you have. If you’re fully engaged, there are no distractions and you’re focused on the task, you can achieve a lot more in an hour than you would in three hours if you’re in a noisy environment, you’re tired, you’ve lost focus and your mind is wandering. It’s particularly helpful to try to move your body and get outdoors during study breaks. Take a walk, stretch and get some fresh air.
Get comfortable
If you’ve ever tried to study while teetering on the edge of a hard chair or with a laptop perched on your knee, you’ll know that comfort is key. Getting comfortable is important because it enables you to concentrate and it improves posture. The idea of working at a coffee shop or sitting in bed or on the couch while studying may seem appealing, but in reality, you need to have a comfortable chair and a desk or table to study properly for long periods. Choose an adjustable office chair that provides support for your spine and make sure your back is straight. Position your keyboard or laptop so that you don’t have to stretch to reach the keys and make sure the screen is at eye level. Your shoulders should be relaxed. Avoid slouching in your chair. Poor posture can contribute to back, shoulder and neck pain.
The environment in which we learn can have a significant impact on our ability to study effectively. To optimize outcomes and make the most of your learning experience at college, it’s essential to create a positive environment. Find a quiet place, avoid distractions and get comfortable. Access study support and resources, take regular breaks, get some fresh air, move your body and maximize exposure to natural light. Establish a personalized routine, which plays to your strengths and caters to your preferences.