Focus, Memory, and Information Retention Techniques for DE Students
In a new generation filled with short-form media, mental health challenges, instant gratification, and other forms of attention-span-shortening factors, students are struggling more and more with focus and memory. In fact, Gen Z’s attention span is approximately eight seconds long. This is shorter than the previous generation by four seconds. To combat this issue, I intend to present my generation with tips and tricks I have found to be quite helpful.
Jasmine L. was one of our HS4CC 2024 Summer Interns and continues to contribute to our blog long after her internship ended! We thank her for her ongoing service to our community. Click on her name to read other posts by Jasmine.
As I’ve explained in previous posts, the pomodoro method is quite helpful for really locking in and studying. It is a guided study experience that helps students stay productive and reduce distractions. Other online features such as online study rooms can act as motivators and keep students accountable. These focus rooms allow your students to join a virtual meeting room with other students to study together and inspire each other to be productive. If this is not a viable option or does not work for your student, virtual study spaces with built in timers can help students focus.
Some learners prefer listening to audiobooks over reading physical books. I personally find them to be helpful when you need to complete other, more mindless tasks at the same time. This tip is only applicable to books without tedious terminology or scientific wording that need more attention than a (non-Shakespeare) play or 1984. To access audiobooks for practically any book, I recommend using Audible. Otherwise, your local library may have copies of what you need.
For difficult readings (or those days when comprehension is especially difficult), I suggest right clicking on the text or article you need to read and selecting the read aloud option. This can help you focus when you’ve stared at a computer for too long.
Finally, take handwritten notes to improve memory and utilize Quizlet to practice terms and ideas. All of these tactics can help your student get ahead of their generation as well as stay focused and productive even on harder days.
These tips can be easy to incorporate into any study schedule and can help enhance memory and focus exponentially. I recommend experimenting with different techniques and finding a rhythm that works for each student. Overall, whatever works best for your student and helps them retain information is the way to go.
