So, you’re starting U of T in September and are super excited… maybe a little bit nervous… or totally freaking out? That’s completely understandable. Starting university can feel like this incredibly daunting task—it’s a brand new challenge for you, after all. I remember in high school there was so much emphasis on how university is a completely different ball game from high school. But just like you figured out the ropes when starting 9th grade, first year is full of discovery; you'll realize that you can get through the things you thought were too hard, proving to yourself that you can do anything.
The kinds of classes you have in university are different from those in high school, which means you will figure out how to learn in a way that best suits you. The way you learn may also differ depending on the lecture, professor and structure of the course. From my experience as a student going into fourth year, here are some different ways I've learned:
- In my first-year lecture, I remember seeing everyone around me pulling out a laptop and tablet to take their notes, and I felt like the only one who was using a notebook and pen. I sketched out pictures that were on the slides using different colours and highlighters to reinforce the information, which really helped with deeply understanding the content. Despite feeling a bit awkward at first, being one of the few using this "old fashioned" method of note taking, I found it extremely beneficial with memorization and absorbing information (and getting to draw images can also be quite enjoyable).
- There are also classes I have that are more discussion-based with no final exam, so I do my best to just listen, take a few notes here and there, and try to be present and engaged during the class instead of trying to write down every single word the professor says. I also make sure coming into the class that I have my readings read so I can actually participate in a meaningful way with the class discussions.
- I've also had fast-paced classes where I feel the need to catch as much of what the professor is saying in order to help prepare for certain assignments and tests, so I will type in order to meet the speed of the professor speaking. I try to not be redundant if there are already slides that have the information, because I know I can find that info later and don't need to type those points.
- Finally, the way that has helped me learn the most is by asking questions. As intimidating as it may seem, professors are not that scary up close! I take my time at the end of class before rushing out the door, and if there's something I don’t understand or want to go deeper into, I simply ask.
I hope you find these learning strategies helpful, and if you're looking for more, check out the Centre for Learning Strategy Support's (CLSS) Learning How to Learn video series! Before fall term starts, watch these short, engaging videos to help you optimize your learning through evidence-based practices.
Good luck and until next time,
– Sammi