Evidence-based health tips for students: the science of studying
In the upcoming months, we’ll share tips on Instagram for our students on how to live a healthier life. Not just a random collection, but tips based on actual research happening at our faculty. The brains behind this idea are Lieve Vonken and Gido Metz, PhD candidates at CAPHRI, the Care and Public Health Research Institute and researchers at the Department of Health Promotion.
In the second edition, Daniëlle Zijlstra covers how to study well. Curious about the tips but missed them on Instagram? We will happily share the tips here. The reference list can be found here
Studying can be fun! If you are sitting at your desk for final exams, don’t fall off your chair just yet, Daniëlle Zijlstra, PhD and lecturer delved into research and found three solid evidence-based tips to make studying easier and a bit more fun. Let us know what worked and be sure to save the tips for the upcoming exam period or September!
Tip 1: Test yourself
Don’t just highlight and summarize text. It is a great start but it works better to create your own self-tests and take them (ref. 1). This active approach not only helps you engage with the material but also shows you what you know and what needs more work. And knowing what you don’t know and how to solve that is crucial (ref. 2).
Tip 2: Spread it out and mix things up
Avoid cramming. Studies (ref. 1) show that spaced repetition is key. Review concepts over several weeks instead of all at once. This method boosts both exam performance and long-term retention. Challenge yourself by mixing different topics. Make connections between concepts and see relationships you didn’t notice before. This not only makes studying more interesting but also enhances your critical thinking.
Tip 3: Learning starts outside of your comfort zone
Feeling overwhelmed? Remember, learning (like life) starts outside your comfort zone (ref. 3). Embrace the challenge and make studying an exciting adventure!
Who said studying had to be boring?
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In the upcoming months, we’ll share tips on Instagram for our students on how to live a healthier life. Not just a random collection, but tips based on actual research happening at our faculty. The brains behind this idea are Lieve Vonken and Gido Metz, PhD candidates at CAPHRI, the Care and Public...
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