Learning strategies
It is a major barrier to effective listening. It's up to you to concentrate on the subject.
Stay focused
Include important details from the book, and elaborate after discussions with your study team or instructor.
Summary
Make questions out of chapter headings, section titles, and definitions.
Predict questions
Pay attention to repetition; "one important factor is"; the use of diagrams, facts or definitions.
Observe the speaker
Skim textbooks chapters for main ideas, general themes, and key concepts.
Preview the material
Quick survey of the chapter you are about to read will give you a general overview.
Preview
Understand the speaker's message and viewpoint. Look for common views.
Show empathy, respect, and genuine interest
You will see and hear better, and be more likely to be alert and ask questions.
Sit up front
Underline and highlight key words, definitions, facts, and important concepts.
Identify key words and concepts
Avoid sitting next to someone who likes to talk. Do not do other activities, and focus on the task.
Reduce distractions
Borrow notes from a classmate that may have important details about the subject
Expand on notes from others
Make sure you read all the elements in your textbook. Ex: glossary, study questions, and chapter objectives.
Use the entire text
Depending on your learning style, you can consider record yourself reading your notes, taking notes with illustrations and drawings, and dig out key points.
Integrate learning styles and use all your senses.
A visual form of note taking which include subtopics that connect with a main idea.
Mind maps
Use a structure to organize the main points of the subject you are reading.
Create an outline