Introduction
I’ve noticed that a lot of students don’t have a sweet clue about how to study. I was there too; everyone has been there. We think that studying means going into a room, not a quiet one most of the time either and they re-read notes. WHAT is that going to do? I mean if the test you had was to read, I'm sure you'd ace it but we as teachers are training expert readers or scribes. STOP re-reading! STOP re-writing. STOP PLEASE!
It's not your fault though. Blissfully unaware listening to the newest release; twelve hours before some of the most important exams of your life, cramming as much as possible. It's not your fault but it is our mission to help fix it. I use ours and refer to the adult community, the education institutes that you put your trust in; and rightly so, some would say we are superhuman. It’s a well-known fact however that we are not given enough time to spread out the curriculum as well as teach you how to be productive warriors with all the study tools. We have in my opinion, not by choice, grossly overlooked an essential part of teaching. Teaching you HOW TO study. I don't remember a single teacher teaching me how to revise, what are good techniques, and what doesn't work according to cognitive scientists. Not even one of my favourite teacher's Madame Carpenter and Mr. Beatie even told me one tip or trick to retain information in my long-term memory. But why? Was it because they thought they were protecting me, trying to reduce stress by overloading me with more information? No, now as a teacher myself, I realise it’s because of our own deadlines and impossible timeframes. So, I’ve come up with a plan and a guide to help show you.
I've decided that that's not good enough and I have decided to share some wisdom with all of you wonderful learning. I am writing this practical guide for you. You the student need this and it's my mission to empower as many of you as possible.
In my second year of university I was at a crossroads and had to decide to go into courses more towards becoming a dietitian or a teacher. I had to do a lot of soul searching at 20 years old and it was a lot of pressure. I decided that I could still be passionate about health and fitness but as a teacher I could positively impact a wider, more vulnerable group of humans. Younger people are more impressionable and need good role models in all aspects of their life so after a few weeks of contemplation I decided teaching was my path. I've never looked back!
I go into each September with new optimism, feeling privileged that I might be able to help another cohort of young adults. I have had many roles throughout my career thus far and all of them have shown me that interactions provide the potential for growth. I can impart my mission and vision for a better healthier world through education and it's been unbelievably fulfilling.
I know this book is about you, but I also need to show you that I am committed to your success and not just hear for fame and fortune. I need you to expect exceptional perseverance and commitment from me for you! Trust and know that I aim to help students, all students learn and be the best version of themselves. I have been able to have many roles within education which makes me very qualified to help you through this journey. I have become exceptionally skilled in some areas, areas that will help you. I have learned organization and time management by being the Primary Liaison Coordinator. I have learned compassion, empathy, sympathy, and the importance of communication as the Pastoral Leader of Sixth Form. I have learned curriculum development, the importance of leadership, and diplomacy as the Deputy Coordinator of Science and now the Coordinator of Science at a secondary school in outer London, England. I am not saying I know everything, but I am saying that I want to help you. So, if you want to learn how to learn come along with me
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If you're here then BE HERE. Be present, be intentional in your change, your development, your life. Realize that you matter, and you owe this to yourself because you're worth it.
Are you committed to improvement?
Are you willing to give time to yourself and your development?
Are you willing take the next month following guided instruction?
If you answered yes to those three questions then welcome, I think you’re ready!