How to Boost Your Academic Performance with Learning Science-Based Techniques

Efficient learning is possible when you have the right tools and techniques out of your educational toolbox. Moreover, learning science has the techniques, technics, and insights that, when applied, can help boost your academic performance, improve your memorization, and encourage the retrieval process in your memory. In this blog, we will discuss the approaches used in learning science that you can implement to increase your academic performance.

Spaced Repetition Technique

The spaced repetition technique works by presenting the same material repeatedly over time. It challenges the brain to remember material, and assists in the gap-filling between the initial recall and the point of forgetting. To optimize this technique, start by spacing study sessions, whereby you spread out the durations for reviewing topics. For instance, you can memorize a list today, review it again tomorrow, and then review it again after some days. By doing this, your brain eventually remembers the information for extended periods. Additionally, you can use flashcards to repeat and recall the material over spaced sessions.

Interleaved Practice

Interleaved practice is another effective learning science technique that involves alternating study sessions across several topics, instead of dedicating one's all time on a single topic. This technique increases your memory retention and boosts your problem-solving capacities as it stretches your focus on recalling information related to several topics. It requires more effort than blocked practice, but it produces a more extended and durable learning process where you have a broad understanding of the topics than one obtained while using a single study topic.

Active Learning

Active learning is the use of practices that participate in learning rather than passively studying or notes taking. Passive learning involves reading texts or listening to a lecture, and writing notes, which are not usually effective in retaining the material learned. Active learning techniques can involve the use of practice questions, group discussions, and case studies. When actively learning, you gain a more comprehensive understanding of the materials on hand as well as develop a sense of self-awareness of your abilities.

Successive Relearning

Successive relearning is a technique that involves re-reading information repeatedly, but every time the material is reviewed, a small bit of information is removed from it to push you to retrieve the information from your memory. Through this process, your ability to recall increases with every reading. To effectively achieve this, you start by reading the first section of the material, then, read the same section after removing a few sentences. Repeat the process for the next section until the entire material is covered.

Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonic devices are memory aids such as acronyms, images, or phrases that assist in retrieving associated memories in simple ways. They are an excellent method to remember vast amounts of information quickly. A good example of a mnemonic device is HOMES, an acronym for Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior, which are the names of the five Great Lakes of America.

By combining spaced repetition, interleaved practice, active learning, successive relearning and mnemonic devices, you can increase your academic performance and improve your memory retention. It is essential also to understand that learning is a continuous process that is not exclusive to the four walls of a classroom. Learning happens in various environments as long as you are intentional about it. Apply these techniques as you work towards improving your academic performance and watch your abilities grow.