Unit 2: Creating a Physical and Mental Space for Studying
This unit explores ways you can organize your space in order to create optimal study environments. In the past, you may not have given this topic much thought; maybe you studied in front of the TV, while hanging out with friends, or on your bed at home. Or, maybe you had a great study space, but now you are in a new environment! This unit will introduce you to the theory behind picking an effective, distraction-free study space, and explain why studying there consistently will make a difference in efficiently completing your academic work. Additionally, this unit will provide you with some strategies for minimizing distractions, especially if you live with family, friends, or roommates.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.
Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- explain the importance of a designated, organized space for studying;
- summarize the most important characteristics of an effective study space;
- describe multitasking and its effects on studying;
- prepare for unplanned study interruptions; and
- identify two actual personal study spaces.
2.1: Why You Need a Space of Your Own
Read the introductory text under the "Learning Objectives" box. The bullet points will give you several good reasons for selecting a special study space. Consider what type of atmosphere you feel most productive in, e.g., a mostly quiet space, such as a library; a space with some background noise, such as a coffee shop; or a space with total privacy, such as your own room. Then, make a list of all the possible study spaces in your own environment that meet your desired criteria. Don't forget to include information about each space; for example, opening and closing hours. Keep this list in your notes so you have several suitable places in mind when you are looking for a study area. Spend approximately 15 minutes re-reading this section and responding to the notebook prompt.
2.2: Elements of a Good Study Space
Read the text under the heading "Use Space to Your Advantage and to Avoid Distractions."
2.3: The Dangers of Multitasking
Read the text under the heading titled "The Distractions of Technology." Be sure to answer the questions posted within the text and reflect on your responses in your notes.
Then, write a summary of multitasking in your academic journal.
Consider how multitasking can actually compromise your time. In your notebook, jot down any recent examples in your own life in which multitasking caused problems. Think of all the free time you could save by staying on task!
Consider how multitasking can shorten your attention span. Following your review, answer the following questions in your notebook: Can you think of any other disadvantages to multitasking while studying? What are some ways you can minimize distractions while studying?
2.4: How to Minimize Distractions and Interruptions
Read the heading titled "Family and Roommate Issues." Make sure to complete the checkpoint exercises at the end of the reading to test your knowledge. Then, write a few sentences in your notebook about how you might prepare for unexpected interruptions.
Along with eliminating technology distractions, try to avoid multitasking in the form of participating in unrelated activities with family or roommates, while you should be spending your time studying.
You may have to rely on others to work with you in developing a manageable schedule for studying in order to minimize distractions.
Remember to stay committed to the time you allotted for studying, which may mean saying no to other activities.
2.5: Identify Two Study Spaces for Yourself
Identify two appropriate study spaces in your home, school, or community that meet the criteria set out by the readings. Open the activity instructions and work through the four questions, using information from the readings and your newly chosen study spaces to draft your answers.
Unit 2 Assessment
- View
Much of your college success will depend upon how much time and attention you spend focused on your studies. A suitable study space is critical to helping you concentrate on your academic skills and reinforce the new material you are learning in your courses. This assessment is a self-guided journal reflection based on the material you have learned in Unit 2 of this course.