Strategies for Learning

To prepare for formal assessments (quizzes, exams, presentations), it’s important to assess your own understanding throughout the semester. Self-checks on your learning, in which you assess your understanding of the material at specific points throughout the semester, look different depending on what you’re studying, but many of the guiding questions are the same regardless of the field. “What’s the big idea of the week/lecture/assignment?” is a great place to start your self-check, and then you can get more specific from there….Continue Reading Assessing Understanding

Learning at college requires processing and retaining a high volume of information across various disciplines and subjects at the same time, which can be a daunting task, especially if the information is brand new. In response, college students try out varied approaches to their learning – often drawing from their high school experiences and modeling what they see their peers doing. While it’s great to try different styles and approaches to learning and studying for your courses, it’s smart to incorporate into your daily habits some learning practices that are backed up by current research.  …Continue Reading Effective Learning

Although it is true that having information stored in our heads is not the same as understanding that information, memorization still serves a vital function in our learning. We cannot continue to advance our knowledge in any subject if we don’t remember the basic components on which that knowledge is building….Continue Reading Memory and Attention

We often don’t think about preparing for class as being a part of the learning process, but studies have shown that a few simple habits can have a lasting impact on your experience….Continue Reading Preparing for Class

Reading is one of the most important components of college learning, and yet it’s one we often take for granted. Of course, students who come to Harvard know how to read, but many are unaware that there are different ways to read and that the strategies they use while reading can greatly impact memory and comprehension. Furthermore, students may find…Continue Reading Reading

Doing a senior thesis is an exciting enterprise. It’s often the first time students are engaging in truly original research and trying to develop a significant contribution to a field of inquiry. But as joyful as an independent research process can be, you don’t have to go it alone. It’s important to have support as you navigate such a large endeavor, and the ARC is here to offer one of those layers of support. …Continue Reading Senior Theses

SQ3R is a form of reading and note taking that is especially suited to working with textbooks and research articles in the sciences and social sciences. It is designed to streamline your reading process by drawing your attention to the material you don’t know, while building on the pre-existing knowledge you already have. Here are the basic components:…Continue Reading SQ3R

Study groups can be an excellent way to strengthen your understanding of course material. Being part of a group engages you with the course material in a deeper way and allows you to build accountability into your week. Study groups are a place where you can ask questions, practice participation, and get to know your classmates in a smaller setting.  Some courses have study groups built in. For others, you may need to create your own group or find a group through a student organization, or you can contact the ARC, and we will try to help you. …Continue Reading Study Groups

Sometimes, the strategies we used to study in high school need to be modified to be effective in a college setting. …Continue Reading Study Strategies

The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) journey at Harvard is unique to each student and can involve several different interests, concentrations, and pathways. Whether you are probing your interest in STEM for the first time or have already explored STEM deeply here or in high school, there is a place for you!…Continue Reading Tackling STEM Courses