Study Skills

What strategies are specific to language study? This session explores strategies and tools that support effective language study. Above it, remember that studying begins as soon as possible, is schedule consistently across the semester, and is an important compliment to assigned homework.

Techniques	Your thoughts
Studying begins as soon as class is over! Re-read and revise your notes Make notes from the notes you took Plan study session times – You can’t cram learning a language! Remember that studying is in addition to homework!	When do I begin studying?
Environment and Learning Preferences Arrange a space to suit your needs Have materials readily available Establish break times Don’t skip breaks! Create rewards for yourself Avoid instant gratification Limit task switching	What kind of environment is conducive to studying a language?
Techniques and Tools Use notecards for vocabulary, grammatical forms or functions Use Incremental Rehearsal Methods Repetition – Repetition – Repetition Studying alone or with a Study Buddy Studyearly and often: Develop a study schedule using backward planning Supplement studying with language clubs, conversation tables, Word-of-the-day listservs, Smartphone apps, Youtube playlists of music, Movies Beware of the Illusion of Knowing Quiz yourself: Quizzing Arrests Forgetting! Involve listening, speaking, reading, and writing Take risks and learn from mistakes	What techniques and tools help me to study a language?
Frequency and Duration of Study Begin studying as soon as possible after class. Don’t leave large gaps of time between study sessions Schedule numerous study sessions over a period of time Interleave content in meaningful chunks. Use study techniques that mirror assessments and authentic use of the language Teach others Record yourself	How often should I study? How frequently should I study?
Evaluate Your Study Habits Assess your effort based on: Test results Other feedback Professor’s assessment General performance Attainment of personal goals	How do I know if my study habits, techniques, and tools are effective?