Ace your long lectures: Effective strategies for students success

Preparing for long hours of lectures and seminars in university requires effective time management, focus, and active engagement. Most students that find it extremely difficult to cope with long hours are post-graduate students, students with ADHD and those with people they care for e.g. children and parents. If you dread looking forward to long hours of lectures, then this post is for you.

Below are examples of how students at Teesside University prepare and cope with long hours of lectures and seminars.

Organize your schedule: Review your course syllabus and create a schedule that includes lecture and seminar times. Allocate dedicated time for studying, breaks, and other activities. Prioritize your tasks and ensure you have enough time to prepare for each session.

Pre-reading: Read the assigned materials, textbooks, or lecture notes before attending the lecture or seminar. Familiarize yourself with the topics and jot down any questions or areas of confusion. Pre-reading will help you understand the material better during the sessions and allow you to actively participate.

Take breaks: Plan short breaks during long study sessions. Research suggests that taking regular breaks enhances focus and retention. Use your breaks to stretch, relax, or engage in a quick physical activity to re-energize yourself.

Have a tribe. A group that makes being in class more fun.

Stay focused in class: Minimize distractions during the lecture or seminar by keeping your phone on silent mode or in your bag. Take detailed notes, highlight important points, and ask questions if something is unclear. Engage actively with the material by participating in discussions and group activities.

Stay organized: Keep your notes and study materials well-organized. Use different coloured pens or highlighters to emphasize important information. Create a system that works for you, such as using folders, binders, or digital note-taking apps.

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Utilize active learning techniques: To improve retention and understanding, actively engage with the material. This can include summarizing the key points in your own words, discussing concepts with peers, or teaching the material to someone else. Active learning helps reinforce your understanding and makes the sessions more interactive.

Stay well-rested and hydrated: Long hours of lectures and seminars can be physically and mentally demanding. Ensure you get enough sleep the night before and stay hydrated throughout the day. A well-rested mind and body will help you stay focused and attentive during the sessions.

Review and revise: After the lecture or seminar, take some time to review and revise the material covered. Fill in any gaps in your understanding, clarify any doubts, and consolidate your knowledge. Reviewing the material shortly after the session will reinforce your learning.

Seek help if needed: If you struggle with certain concepts or find it challenging to keep up with the workload, don't hesitate to seek help. Contact your professors, teaching assistants, or classmates for clarification or additional resources. University resources like tutoring centres or academic support services can also provide assistance.

Everyone has a learning style, so adapt these tips to suit your preferences and needs. Experiment with different strategies until you find what works best for you. Good luck with your studies!