2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

Chapter 1: Active Learning

Bridging the Gap, 9/eBrenda Smith

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

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

What is Active Learning?

•Paying attention•Understanding learning styles

•Overcoming distractions

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

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

How does the BrainScreen Messages?

•A dual command center screens messages.• The cortex screens for trivial information.•The cortex & reticular activation system (RAS) blocks distractions.

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

Is Divided Attention Effective?

“You can’t do two things at once and do them well.”

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

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

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

Cognitive Styles

1. Extroverted-Introverted2. Sensing-Intuitive3. Thinking-Feeling4. Judging-Perceiving

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

Right-Versus Left-Brain Dominance

Left Brain

•Analytical•Logical•Verbal Skills

Right Brain

•Intuitive•Creative•Emotional•Think in Symbols

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

Multiple Intelligences

•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

See Page 7 in your book for a diagram of multiple intelligences.

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Use the Syllabus

• Goals• Objectives• Assignments• Examination dates• Course requirements • Explanation of the grading

system

2008 Pearson Education, Inc., Publishing by Longman Publishers

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

Search the Net

1. Make a Plan2. Search and Search Again3. Read Selectively4. Record As You Go5. 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

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

Search the Net

For suggested Web sites and other research activities, go to http://www.ablongman.com/smith/