October 2008
WISE sponsors reading workshopWISE recently sponsored a workshop entitled "Reading Science Texts for Learning," led by Dr. Martha Kirpes, an LSA Academic Advisor. Dr. Kirpes holds a PhD in Environmental Education and Justice-India and was part of the IPCC that shared the Nobel Peace Prize with former Vice President Al Gore in 2007. Eighteen students attended her presentation. Kirpes asked students to bring a science or engineering text and then had them follow along in their text with her steps. Her suggestions include skimming the book before reading for things like the preface, table of contents, index and appendices, and notes from the author. Says Kirpes: "This gives your brain a context for the semester, a structure to fill in when reading the book. Studies on student cognition show that having this structure before reading makes it easier for your brain to know where to but information and therefore enables you to store and recall information more easily and efficiently." Students, who listed the amount of reading, as well the need to read more quickly and efficiently as their reasons for attending, were also asked for their favorite studying strategies. These included looking at photos, reading and then restating material, highlighting, and making their own glossaries. In addition to these strategies, Kirpes suggests paying special attention to graphs and charts, reading key concepts and conclusions, reading the study questions first, understanding variables clearly, and setting aside your own personal best time of day to read. Of course, studying with a buddy helps, too. For interested students, Tau Beta Pi, and engineering society, offers free tutoring. |
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