BECOMING AN ACTIVE LEARNER

When you’re an active learner, you feel more in control of your studying.
You’re actively using your questions, your answers, your images, your
order. You’re noting what’s important to you. You’ll find you want to
study when you’re making these decisions for yourself. Assume
responsibility for your own learning, and learning will become enjoyable.
One way to be an active learner is to think ahead before you read
something.
Right now, write the answers to these questions in your notebook,
or speak them into your tape recorder.
• What are you expecting to happen in this chapter?
• What questions do you have about this chapter?

Practice Tips

• Study actively. Before you study, think of a real-life use for the subject
at hand. Imagine yourself as a professional involved with the
study material. If you’re studying management, pretend you own
your own company; if you’re studying chemistry, think of yourself
as a chemist; and so on. Keep your character in mind as you create
and answer questions from the text or audiotape, make notes, and
review your study session.
• Study by moving.After a study session, take a notepad and pen with
you as you go for a walk of at least 20 minutes. Choose a time when
you don’t feel rushed.As you’re walking, think about what you studied.
Stop and write down these thoughts as they come to mind. You
might also discover new connections with old material