Chapter 1: Active Learning

1. Chapter 1: Active Learning Bridging the Gap, 9/eBrenda Smith 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

2. In This Chapter You Will Answer the Questions: • What is active learning? • How does the brain “pay attention?” • Can you do two things at once? • What are multiple intelligences? • How can you improve your concentration? • What are common internal and external distracters and cures? • Why is your syllabus important? 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

3. What is Active Learning? • Paying attention • Understanding learning styles • Overcoming distractions 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

4. What is Cognitive Psychology? Cognitive psychology is the body of knowledge that describes how the mind works. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

5. A dual command center screens messages. The cortex screens for trivial information. The cortex & reticular activation system (RAS) blocks distractions. How does the BrainScreen Messages? 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

6. Is Divided Attention Effective? “You can’t do two things at once and do them well.” 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

7. Can Tasks Become Automatic? • Driving a car or dribbling a basketball are automatic processes. • But…driving a car and talking on the cell phone is not a good idea. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

8. Automatic Aspects of Reading • College textbook reading is not as automatic as everyday reading. • So concentration is needed to read college texts, preferably with no interruptions. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

9. Cognitive Styles • Extroverted-Introverted • Sensing-Intuitive • Thinking-Feeling • Judging-Perceiving 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

10. Left Brain Analytical Logical Verbal Skills Right Brain Intuitive Creative Emotional Think in Symbols Right-Versus Left-Brain Dominance 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

11. Word smart-Linguistic Picture smart-Spatial Logical smart-Logical mathematical Body smart-Bodily-kinesthetic People smart-Interpersonal Self smart-Intrapersonal Music smart-Musical Nature smart-Naturalistic Multiple Intelligences See Page 7 in your book for a diagram of multiple intelligences. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

12. What is Concentration? • Concentration is the process of paying attention. • It is essential for active learning. • It is a habit that requires time and effort to develop for consistent success. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

13. Cures for External Distractions • Create a Place for Studying. • Use a Pocket Calendar, Assignment Book, or Personal Digital Assistant. • Schedule Weekly Activities. • Take Short Breaks. (50-10 ratio) 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

14. Cures for Internal Distractions • Make a List. • Increase Your Self-Confidence. • Improve Your Self-Concept. • Reduce Anxiety. • Spark an Interest. • Set a Time Goal. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

15. Reader’s Tip: Improving Concentration • Create an environment that says, “Study.” • Use a calendar, assignment book or PDA for short- and long-term planning. • Keep a daily to-do list. • Take short breaks. • Visualize yourself as a successful graduate. • Reduce anxiety by passing the first test. • Spark an interest. • Ste time goals for completing daily assignments. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

16. Successful Academic Behaviors • Attend class • Be on Time. • Recognize Essential Class Sessions. • Read Assignments Before Class. • Review Lecture Notes Before Class. • Consider Using a Tape Recorder. • Predict the Exam Questions. • Pass the First Test. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

17. Successful Academic Behaviors • Network with other students • Form a Study Group. • Learn from Other Students’ Papers. • Collaborate. Check out the Reader’s Tip on Managing E-mail Effectively. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

18. Use the Syllabus • Goals • Objectives • Assignments • Examination dates • Course requirements • Explanation of the grading system 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

19. Summary Points • What is active learning? • How does the brain “pay attention?” • Can you do two things at once? • What are multiple intelligences? • What are common internal and external distracters? • How can you improve your concentration? • What academic behaviors can lead to college success? • Why is your syllabus important? 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

20. Search the Net • Make a Plan • Search and Search Again • Read Selectively • Record As You Go • Consider the Source Check the Reader’s Tips on Popular College Databases and on Manipulating the Search. 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

21. Concept Prep for Psychology • Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and the mind. • Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung were important psychologists. • Special areas include: • Biological psychology • Behavioral psychology • Cognitive psychology • Humanistic psychology • Life span psychology • Cross-cultural psychology 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

22. Search the Net For suggested Web sites and other research activities, go to http://www.ablongman.com/smith/ 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers