Active-learning strategies are often discussed in the context of classroom teaching, but some of these ideas can be adapted to individual study sessions – ideal for AAT self-study or distance learning students. Here are some ways self-study students can implement active learning strategies:
1. Write your own questions and quizzes
Create Your Own Questions: As you read or review material, write some questions about the content (if you're using the Cornell Notes System, you'll be adding questions when you're writing your notes). Try to answer them without looking at the material.
Self-Quizzing: Create your own quizzes based on the study material. Use flashcards or online quiz tools (Quizlet is a popular one) to test your knowledge.
2. Summarise the topic in your own words
Summarise in Your Own Words: After reading a section of your study book or article, summarise the main points in your own words. This helps reinforce your understanding and memory.
Teach Someone Else: Explain the concepts you’ve learned to someone else, or even to yourself out loud. Talking about the material is a great way to organise your own thoughts, and teaching is a powerful way to reinforce your understanding.
3. Be an active note-taker!
Cornell Note-Taking System: Use the Cornell method to organise your notes. Divide your page into three sections: notes, cues, and summary. This system encourages you to process and review the material actively.
Mind Mapping: Create mind maps to organise information visually. This helps in understanding relationships between concepts.
4. Discuss the topic with other students
Study Groups: Join or form study groups where you can discuss and debate topics with peers. This can be done in person or through online forums and study groups.
Online Forums: Participate in online discussion forums related to your subject. You could try the AAT’s discussion forums and Facebook has a myriad of groups aimed at Accounting and Bookkeeping students (Student Street is a popular one that caters for both ICB and AAT students of all levels).
5. Reflective practices
Reflective Journals: Keep a journal where you reflect on what you have learned, what you found challenging, and how you can improve.
Self-Assessment: Regularly assess your understanding and skills. Use practice exams, quizzes, or self-assessment tools to gauge your progress.
6. Apply your knowledge to the real-world
Real-World Application: Try to apply what you’ve learned to real-world scenarios. This could be through projects, case studies, or practical experiments.
Projects and Case Studies: Work on small projects or case studies that require you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
7. Spaced repetition
Spaced Repetition Systems (SRS): Use tools like Anki or Quizlet that use spaced repetition algorithms to help you review material at optimal intervals to enhance retention.
8. Are you thinking about your thinking?
Think About Your Thinking: Be aware of your learning process. Identify what strategies work best for you and adjust your study habits accordingly. This is also known as metacognition.
Plan, Monitor, Evaluate: Plan your study sessions, monitor your progress, and evaluate your understanding regularly.
Conclusion
Incorporating these active learning strategies into your self-study routine can enhance your engagement with the material, improve retention, and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
