by Mary Therese

Created on: April 09, 2008

I have enjoyed a career as an educator at the middle school, high school, community college, and university levels and I have also been a student for many years in both traditional classrooms and in distance learning courses. Through this experience on both sides of the learning equation, I have witnessed and employed successful strategies for preparing oneself for a class. While most of these tips are derived from positive achievements as a student, some were learned the hard way, through disappointing or mediocre moments in my own academic record. These pointers may help you avoid similar unsatisfactory situations as a student, particularly at the college or university levels.

THE COURSE TITLE MAY BE MISLEADING
Course titles in college catalogs and registration schedules are too brief to be meaningful, so you need to read more about a course before enrolling in it. Read the full course description and syllabus, if possible. Do not rely on nicknames others may give a class, for example, at my school, a Geology course was nicknamed "Rocks for Jocks" because it was popular among college football players. There was a misguided assumption that it was an easy class. Many students were disappointed to find out that it was a tough course including complex processes and calculations from the scientific disciplines of geology and geophysics. The misleading alias for the course was the result of professor's flexibility with deadlines for athletes during football season! Another commonly misleading title is Music Appreciation - students assume they'll be listening to music rather than learning about music theory, a challenging discipline for many. Most institutions provide course descriptions on their websites or you can request a syllabus from the professor.

USE A CALENDAR/PLANNER
At the beginning of the academic term, put all course deadlines into your planner. Include more than just the deadlines for assignments and test dates, jot all required readings and homework so that you have a complete picture of your class obligations. Use this data to plan and manage your daily schedule and don't forget to allocate time for yourself. Allow yourself time to relax, spend time with family and friends, and attend to work and social obligations. Successful students use planners to help balance their lives and reduce stress.

READ THE BOOK BEFORE AND AFTER CLASS
In order to get the most out of your class, complete assigned readings before you go to class or listen to the lecture. If

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