Ever felt like no matter how much you study, the info just doesn't stick? You're not alone! Many students face the challenge of retaining all the information they're bombarded with daily – even when completing short courses online. But don't worry, we've got your back! Let's dive into five practical tips to boost your memory retention, making learning not just easier but also more enjoyable. And the best part? You can apply these strategies to any subject!
1. Break It Down (Chunking)
Remember trying to memorise a phone number? Chances are, you broke it down into smaller parts. This is called 'chunking', and it's a game-changer for study sessions. Instead of cramming an entire chapter in one go, break down the information into bite-sized pieces. Group similar facts together and study them in chunks. This way, your brain can process and remember the info more effectively. Whether you’re studying social media and marketing or dog grooming and pet care, this is one of the most effective ways to learn new information.
2. Get Moving (Exercise)
Who knew your gym teacher was right? Exercise is good for the brain! Physical activity increases blood flow to your noggin, bringing more oxygen and keeping your memory sharp. So, take a brisk walk, hit the gym, or dance around your room. Not only will it boost your mood, but it'll also help cement facts in your memory.
3. Sleep On It
Ever heard the saying, "I'll sleep on it"? There's wisdom in those words! Sleep plays a crucial role in memory consolidation – the process of converting new info into long-term memory. Ensure you're getting enough quality sleep, especially before big tests or after study sessions. Sleeping is similar to your body pressing 'save' on all the info you've learned.
4. Teach Someone Else
If you can teach the concept to someone else, you've truly mastered it. Explaining the material to a friend, family member, or even your pet (they're great listeners) can help clarify your thoughts and reinforce your memory. It's a win-win – you get a better grasp of the subject, and they get to learn something new!
5. Mix It Up (Interleaving)
Studying the same thing for hours can be dull and less effective. Instead, try interleaving – switching between different topics or types of problems during your study sessions. This approach challenges your brain to adapt and apply different strategies, leading to better learning and memory retention.
Check Out These Memory Boosting Apps
Smartphones do everything these days (you can even take OCA short courses on them for a convenient learning experience!).
Whether you have an iPhone or Android, check out these great memory-boosting apps.
- Peak
- Elevate
- Lumosity
These are just three of the many available and are free to download. Just be aware that some of these apps require regular payment for their complete services to be enjoyed*.
(*We have no affiliation with any memory app company – we just really like these!)
The Importance of Taking Care of Your Mental Health When Studying
If you’re currently navigating the world of online education, it's essential to remember that your mental health is just as important as your academic success.
According to a 2017 Headspace study, a significant number of Australian students reported their mental health as just fair or poor.
But here's the deal: your mental well-being is the bedrock of your academic performance. Prioritising your mental health isn’t just about feeling good – it’s about giving yourself the foundation to succeed in your studies.
Remember, there's no shame in seeking help or taking a break when things get heavy. Your education is important, but your health is priceless.
There’s plenty of support if you don’t have anyone close, and access is free. Here are just a few helpful resources to assist any student needing mental health support:
By Phone:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Online:
Unlock Your Learning Potential with OCA’s Video-Based Courses
Ready to enhance your memory while mastering new skills? Dive into a video-based short course from Online Courses Australia (OCA) and discover the difference.
With the flexibility to study at your own pace, whenever and wherever suits you best, our engaging video content is specifically designed to boost memory retention, making learning more effective and enjoyable.
Embrace the power of visual learning with OCA and elevate your educational journey today! Check out our most popular courses and get started whenever you’re ready!
Memory Retention FAQs
How long does it take to see improvements in memory?
Improvement times vary, but with consistent practice, most students start noticing changes within a few weeks.
Can these techniques help with all types of subjects?
Absolutely! These strategies are versatile and can be applied to any subject, from history to science to languages.
How can I make my study sessions more effective?
Set clear goals, eliminate distractions, and take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Remember, quality over quantity!
How do video-based courses help with memory retention?
Video-based learning caters to various learning styles, offering visual and auditory stimuli that help in retaining information more effectively compared to text-only materials.
What should I do if I'm still struggling with memory retention?
Don't hesitate to ask for help! Whether it's consulting with a tutor, joining a study group, or taking an OCA short course, there are plenty of resources out there to assist you.
