Hands on learner needs help with study habits

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Oct 21, 2013

Have you tried concept mapping? This is great way to 'apply' the learning in a way you can remember it. If you're just 'skimming' the reading material, you may miss some very important things. Don't focus on memorizing 'factoids'... focus on how the information can be applied.

For instance, if you are learning about vasoconstriction... It is important to understand the theory... how it's triggered, and the effect on circulation, but what does it 'look like'? How would it show up in a physical assessment?

krisiepoo · Oct 22, 2013

are you not doing well in school? I do nearly all that as well... I start with reading before the lecture and the lecture reinforces the reading... I do the NCLEX questions. One thing I do is walk on a treadmill while reading, it helps stimulate my learning and i retain more.

Are you asking because you feel you're doing too much or are you asking because you're doing all this and failing?

quirkystudent · Oct 22, 2013

I asked because I'm not doing the greatest and I know I can do better. I'm barely getting the minimum 80% I need to stay in the program. I do a bit of everything because I honestly don't know how to study. When I was in high school I literally slept through class and maintained straight A's. Since I never had to study I seriously don't know how. I know that sounds really dumb but it's true. I'm disappointed I'm not a straight A student anymore but I feel like I'm trying my hardest. I was just hoping to find someone who went through the same struggles so I could try their advice.

sharon4248 · Oct 24, 2013

I understand. I had the same problem..never had to study before, so I didn't know how! I tried multiple methods, but what worked for me was making flashcards. Not just definition flashcards, but flashcards with actual questions on them that you have to think through. Repitition is key for me, so these flashcards helped. I have another classmate that outlines her chapters, and that is what works for her. Also, for what you are studying, look up mnemonics. For example, if you are studying the blood pressure drugs, google "nursing blood pressure drugs mnemonic" or something like that. Then click on the images tab. You would be surprised what pictures pop up that can help you visualize and remember. Good luck!

quirkystudent · Nov 22, 2013

Oh. I didn't update. My grade is pretty awesome now. I've got a 96 in pharm, 84 in med surg (not too happy about that but it's passing), and a 98 in clinicals. I wish we could do clinicals the whole time. I learn so much more that way.

But yay for getting the grades up!

Mainergal2000 · Dec 3, 2013

Oh. I didn't update. My grade is pretty awesome now. I've got a 96 in pharm 84 in med surg (not too happy about that but it's passing), and a 98 in clinicals. I wish we could do clinicals the whole time. I learn so much more that way. But yay for getting the grades up![/quote']
Wow awesome on the Pharm! That's a tough course, you must have a young mind. Lol! What is your secret in that class? Do share! Do you use any extra help books or websites to help you along?

quirkystudent · Dec 7, 2013

Wow awesome on the Pharm! That's a tough course you must have a young mind. Lol! What is your secret in that class? Do share! Do you use any extra help books or websites to help you along?[/quote']
Honestly being a medication aide paid off. It helped a lot because most of the meds I have been introduced to and understand them. There are apps you can download that helps though. Search the App Store for pharmacology. They have quizzes you can take and the ones you miss have rationals as to why you were wrong.