Do you know anyone “going back to school?” Here are some things to share…

I recently worked with a family preparing for another academic year. The student and her family is concerned about the volume of work she already knows she will have.  With classes, homework, sports and a part-time job, the hours for family time (sleep even!) are negatively impacted. Here are three things to help you study and perform more effectively. 

Start small, start early.  It is critical to identify the “end results” immediately. During running season, a student may commit to dropping a minimum of :10 second off her mile time. For a research paper, she may decide to turn in a wire-bound, well-written document with a minimum of four pages of pictures using at least 6 sources. Decide on the “front end” what the end will look like. 

Look for ideas “outside the box.” Out of the “square” thinking is very popular (and important) in our world.  The easiest way to get new ideas, and to learn new concepts, is to ask people.  If you’re getting ready for volleyball season, call the local community college or university. Ask a coach (head coach, assistant coach, receptionist even!) if you can have lunch together. Ask all the questions you can about volleyball, college sports, academic requirements and more. 

Know your limits. What are acceptable study hours to you personally? To your family? To your job? To your friends? Are you reading well into the late hours of the night? Do you wake up early to cram “just a little bit more?” Some times the volume of homework, practices, exams and responsibilities demands change. If you’re at your “limit,” what do you have to do next? Take a speed reading class?  Install better lighting at your “think” station? Form a study group? 

In order to maximize your learning position and success, it is important to decide what habits work best for you. As you are studying for an upcoming class or exam, or preparing for an athletic event, take a few moments to “start where you are.”

(A couple of extras:

A great recording:  http://www.thinking-forward.com/podcasts/bts.html

As the school year gets underway, I also wanted to include a potential resource for the people you interact with. Please click on this link for an article published in the magazine: Santa Barbara Family Life.  http://www.sbfamilylife.com/f06aug3p.htm)

Hi Jason,

Thanks so much for posting this.  I have a child in special ed and I’m always looking for new resources, ideas, and information.  Some unfortunate things almost happened in his educational career because I was unaware of some pertinent information.  So, I’m trying to learn and keep learning as much as I can to help him.  I’m excited about the thinking forward site and podcast!!

Renata

liveoutloud - 23 August 2006 11:52 PM

I’m trying to learn and keep learning as much as I can to help him.
Renata

This is music to a teacher’s ears. One thing I know (after spending 6 years in public education, in California) is that the “squeaky wheel does get the most attention. I remember hearing from the parents who cared; I look back on that experience and am thankful they were there.

So, keep learning, keep going, and keep sharing!

Thanks…

Jason, thanks for the compliment!  I figure I’m one of his best advocates and my “squeaky” voice is the voice that keeps his voice being heard.  I volunteered in one of his classes one year and it was an amazing experience.  I learned how important the teacher/parent/student relationship is, and I don’t take it for granted any more!  I always try to keep this experience in the back of my mind when we run into some into some rough spots.

Dave, I like your analogy about the car/mortage payments.  I hadn’t thought about it like that before. It definitely makes sense to “chunk” it like Scott says.  Perception does count for alot, doesn’t it!

liveoutloud - 24 August 2006 08:50 PM

I volunteered in one of his classes one year and it was an amazing experience. 

Again, you’ve struck upon one of the things I “wish” more parents would do.

You know, just going in to the classroom once during the year (or once a quarter, or once a month, or once a week!) will show oh so much. In fact, as a teacher I used to observe the other teachers at my school. Specifically, I was watching to see how they interacted with the students I found to be challenging.

The interesting thing: The students who were challenging in my classes were MUCH MORE disruptive in other teachers’ classrooms. I actually asked one student, later, about why he acted differently in another teacher’s class. His answer:

“Oh, he lets me get away with it. You don’t.”

Fascinating what a little involvement can do!

Hey Jason-

Great job on this.  Good to see you living your passion.

I’ve been working with Weight Watchers over the past 18 months on their childhood obesity program and we’ve learned many things… and have been reminded of a few.

In the end, the final program has become focused on parenting skills because as we all know - kids DO what we expect them to DO. 

The funny thing is - so do adults.

I guess we better focus on this generation and get the DO’S right.

Jason,

I agree.  Even one classroom visit can be eye opening.  I probably won’t get to volunteer on a regular basis this year, but I will make a point of visiting the classes when I can.  The school admin sees me so much they think I’m on the payroll, lol. 

That is very interesting about how one student’s behavior can change from class to class.  Hmmm. I should pay more attention to this! 

Scott, I think you’re right. Parents have got to lead the way!  I’m trying to keep learning and keep those brain cells working.

Thanks!

Renata