Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! For this week’s blog post, I wanted to focus on a study tip for academic success that highlights modern-day technologies. In the twenty-first century, we are faced with more and more technological advancements, especially in the world of education. One lead change I’ve seen is the change from physical to online textbooks. While the content is the same, how you access and measure your understanding can look different. 

Utilize All of the Tools Provided

A common feature of online textbooks is the toolbar or functions that are available while reading. The first helpful tool is the “quick search tab” where readers can search keywords or topics to be directed to pages that cover the subject. This can speed up the pace of reading or help relocate information that needs to be referenced again. 

Note-taking should always be practiced when reading your textbook and that is no different when reading on a screen. Clicking on a line of text or selecting the notes icon allows readers to make a direct note in the section of their choice. Flashcards are less frequent but a great tool if available on your platform because it quizzes your knowledge. Some flashcards may be premade and others may allow you to create your own with frequent vocabulary words you find necessary to review. 

The last tool I want to talk about is the audio function. One of my favorite ways to read my online textbooks is while I’m cleaning so that I can listen to the content while actively getting other tasks completed.

Make Adjustments Where Needed

If reading online textbooks is new to you or if you feel like you aren’t getting the most out of the experience, my next tip is to make adjustments to how the text is displayed and/or how you access the text. Here are some adjustments that have made a difference in my enjoyment and memory recall and may help increase your success in your classes. First, I recommend adjusting the brightness, line spacing, and font styles so that you have enhanced visibility as needed. Second, have the text read aloud to you so that you can read and hear the information together to further your understanding. Lastly, find out if completing mindless tasks or eliminating all distractions works best for you. I work better when my hands are moving and I’m busy with a task such as cleaning but others may need to zone in and close out other tabs to focus. Discover what works best for you and stick with it!

Takeaways

Textbooks are a resource for each of your classes and should guide you in your learning. Understanding the content and getting the most out of a textbook is important for the applied knowledge in the class. If you want more tips for academic success or need guidance in your study habits, visit with the Center for Academic Success and Transition office to meet with a Peer Mentor or a Success Coach. You can request to meet or stop by during drop-in hours. (Drop-in hours change every semester; see the Student Academic Assistance page for this semester’s hours.)

~Aubrey

(Bio: My name is Aubrey Hardy, and I am a senior studying special needs education. Fun fact: I’ve read over 15 books this year!)