Your Hand Has A Memory: Study Tips for STEM

Hello everyone and welcome back to another episode of the Black Liberation Tech podcast! I am your host, Dr. Renee Jordan, and today we’re diving into the topic "Your Hand Has A Memory: Study Tips for STEM." This episode is inspired by a blog post I wrote, which delves into the importance of hands-on learning and how actively engaging with your study material can enhance your memory and understanding, particularly in STEM fields.Introduction to the Topic:Importance of hands-on learning and how physically engaging with material can improve retention and comprehension.Conversation with My Niece:Text exchange with my niece at Morgan State University about her study strategies for midterms.Advice on focusing study time on the most challenging subjects.Study Tips for Science:Drawing diagrams for processes and labeling each step.Writing out what happens in each step and including key vocabulary.Using diagrams and flowcharts to understand and remember sequences.Writing and Drawing for Memory:Importance of writing and drawing to reinforce learning.Math Study Tips:Working through problems step-by-step and writing out each step.Covering up solutions and attempting to solve problems independently.Importance of understanding the process, not just the final answer.Showing Work in Mathematics:Importance of documenting each step in problem-solving.Helps teachers identify and correct mistakes, potentially earning partial credit.Written steps clarify your thought process and provide a clear path for improvement.Digital Literacy and Application Software:Tips for mastering software like Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.Making your own instruction manual with screenshots and step-by-step guides.Importance of Active Engagement:Rewriting notes to ensure legibility and fill in gaps.Hands-on practice with software and tools to reinforce learning. Science Study Techniques:Using visual aids and diagrams to understand complex processes.Beyond definitions, comprehend the entire process: inputs, sequences, and outputs.Self-created diagrams and notes reinforce memory more effectively than passive observation. Utilizing Available Resources:Leverage all class materials, syllabus guidelines, and online learning management systems.Explore additional resources like recommended websites and videos.Proactively seek help from professors, teaching assistants, classmates, and tutoring services.Prioritizing Study Efforts:Focus on the most challenging subjects first.Schedule hardest exams first if possible, to alleviate stress and allow more relaxed preparation for easier subjects.Major-specific courses deserve extra attention.Final Thoughts:Encouragement to use hands-on learning techniques for better retention and understanding.Importance of actively engaging with study material, especially in STEM subjects.Reminder to treat study notes as dynamic tools that evolve with your understanding.