The information below will help athletes explore active ways to acquire knowledge effectively. If you are able to begin using and practicing active learning methods from the very beginning – in this way, the skill/understanding will become an automatic, normal part of your learning routine.
Basic Skills
Summarizing the subject at the end of each module, topic, or chapter: This will help you think clearly about the information and gain a better understanding of the concepts involved. It will also allow you to quickly review the material covered. You can create a summary as well as a list of key elements that can be set aside for future revision. Consider using mind maps and diagram-based overviews.
Active reading: A large part of your reading should include additional activities such as note-taking, underlining, or highlighting text. You may also consider speed reading to gain a general overview before reading word by word. If you have an outline of the topic or module, it may be useful to ask yourself questions that you can answer while reading.
Using drawings and diagrams: For many athletes, using diagrams or visual aids is a very useful tool that supports learning and memory. The more visual something is, the more effective it can be as a learning tool.
Say things out loud: Every time you go over the material, you are placing information into your long-term memory. Reviewing material aloud, as well as discussing what you are learning with teachers, lecturers, fellow students, and friends, will also help strengthen your knowledge and improve understanding of the topic.
Create flashcards with definitions and formulas: Put the word or formula on one side of the card and its definition on the other side. This process can also be useful for vocabulary while studying.
Pre-reading activities
Pre-reading activity is like practicing or training in your sport. It allows you to prepare and be ready for performance by thinking about what lies ahead.
Keep a piece of paper or notebook nearby for the information you may need: formulas, abbreviations, keywords, and definitions. It is also useful to ask yourself questions: what, when, where, why, and how to begin the process of understanding and learning.
Post-reading activities
Gather all the main elements into a concise overview – try using a mind map or diagram, and explain what you have learned. Talking with a teacher, lecturer, fellow students, or friends will also help you check how much you understood and further strengthen your knowledge.