SQR3 method proves to be successful among students
Photo by Deborah Tragasz
With finals week quickly approaching, Drury students will scurry to finish big projects and hold study sessions for big tests.
Students know that studying is the best way to ensure a passing grade on final exams; however, some ways of studying are more efficient than others. The SQ3R studying method is based on psychology of the mind. It is a way to ensure that the information being read actually transfers into long-term memory. Dr. Racheal Herrington of the Department of Behavioral Sciences firmly supports this method.
“The SQ3R method requires the student to first skim the chapter, and then form a question on their own based on the material read.,” said Herrington. “The three R’s refer to read, rehearse, and review. This requires the student to quiz themselves. This type of studying method allows students to remember the bigger picture of the material, rather than quick facts.”
The SQ3R method is an efficient method that is used by many students, even if they do not realize there is actually a title for their study habits. Sophomore and psychology major Lara-Sophia Müller uses a form of the method and has some tips for students going into finals week.
“I usually keep up with the readings over the semester and when an exam comes up, I read the chapters again. I explain the concepts to myself while I’m studying; this helps me to revise multiple times before the exam and explain it over and over again,” said Müller. “This method helps me with my performance in class because I am able to remember it long-term. When it comes to studying, don’t just sit in your room and read the book. Explain the most important material to yourself or a study mate. Also, start reviewing early because then the information stays in the brain longer.”
Graduating senior and psychology major, Rachel Swadley, also has a strict routine when it comes to studying. She creates her own outlines when necessary, and spreads out the studying over a long period of time.
“Before a big test, I will try and complete all of the related readings. When I create a study guide or outline, I focus on the important concepts or definitions that I am least familiar with. The day before and the day of the exam I will read through the study guide in my free time. Spreading the studying out over several days helps me to actually learn the material instead of just memorizing it,” said Swadley. “When studying, I would recommend getting sleep the night before a test. It is always better to study for a few hours and then get some sleep instead of pulling an all-nighter. There is nothing worse than showing up for an exam with a foggy mind.”
When it comes to studying, there is a theme of spreading the material out. Dr. Herrington explains that this is because the information is better retained over a long period of time.
“Studying is based on memory. If the material is not effetely processed, it won’t transform into long-term memory. Studying small bits of information over a period of time is better than cramming. Studies have shown that students who review their notes a few minutes before and after class will remember the material much better when it comes to the test,” said Herrington.
Finals week takes a toll on every college student. However, if students know how to study there will be less pressure when it comes to final exams. Trying the SQ3R method and spreading out study sessions over a period of time will ensure that students become masters of the material, rather than simply memorizing it.
