https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/CollegeXpress: Majors and Academics Blog2024-03-28T23:53:56.110372+00:00python-feedgenhttp://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/what-is-a-syllabus-everything-to-know-about-this-important-document/What Is a Syllabus? Everything to Know About This Important Document2024-03-28T19:53:56.138491-04:00Carolina Jacobs<p class="MsoNormal">As a prospective college student embarking on a new educational chapter, you’ll find the syllabus is one of your best academic resources. Professors will expect a lot from you in college, from getting yourself to class on time to keeping up with a schedule of challenging assignments. Overall, you’re responsible for your college learning experience, so keep yourself organized with the ultimate resource any teacher hands you at the beginning of the semester: their course syllabus! Let’s take a look at what this document is and how it can help you succeed throughout the semester.</p>
<h2>What is a syllabus?</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">A syllabus is basically a course blueprint that outlines the topics and materials you’ll study throughout a class and what you’ll have to complete, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li class="MsoNormal">Reading assignments</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Weekly homework</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Midterm or final projects</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Quizzes, tests, and exams</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal">Syllabi also provide you with important deadlines, grading and code of conduct policies, and how to get in touch with your professors if you have any questions or want to <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/video-all-things-office-hours/">take advantage of their office hours</a>. A syllabus often includes a list of necessary supplies to complete your work. But a syllabus is more than just a road map to learning—it also acts like a contract between you and your professor, acknowledging your responsibilities as a student and highlighting their promise to teach to the best of their ability.</p>
<h3>Reviewing your syllabi</h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">You’ll receive a syllabus for every course during the first week of each semester. Your professor will likely spend some time on the first day reviewing it. This is the ideal time to ask questions and seek clarification. Some professors may even post the syllabus online before class begins so you can come prepared for the first day. It’s crucial to read all your syllabi at the beginning of each semester so you can add important due dates to your calendar and plan ahead for more time-consuming assignments. Writing all your assignments down allows you to schedule other events around your course requirements and <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/4-techniques-improve-your-time-management/">build your time management skills</a> as a student.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/how-stay-top-your-classes-and-life-first-weeks-college/"><strong>How to Stay on Top of Your Classes (and Life) in the First Weeks of College</strong></a></p>
<h2>Syllabi for online classes</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">You should receive some form of syllabus whether you’re attending classes online or in person. If you’re in a distance learning program, you can expect all correspondence and important documents to be available in the virtual classroom or via your student portal. Though online classes are often more flexible, you’ll be expected to stay on top of your work two-fold—you’re <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/how-create-effective-distance-learning-routine/">responsible for prioritizing your schedule</a> when it comes to virtual learning. It’s different for everyone, and some may find the format too challenging to adapt to. Fortunately, professors will store the syllabus for you in the virtual classroom so you can access it whenever you need to. It will help you keep up with each week’s topics and assignments so you always know where you stand in the course.</p>
<h2><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Continue to use your syllabi </strong></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Being a college student forces you to learn the importance of organization quickly. You can use each syllabus as a generic timetable to help you structure your semester. Remember, you’re going to be managing multiple classes, projects, and due dates simultaneously; the last thing you want is insufficient time to study for your midterm exam when you have a presentation due the same week because you didn’t cross-reference your syllabi. As an independent college student, it’s your obligation to contact your professors in a professional manner if there’s an oversight in your planning when it comes to completing your assignments. But if you continue to use your syllabi throughout the semester, the less likely you’ll have to face the repercussions of late classwork.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/why-everyone-should-keep-planner/"><strong>Why Every College Student Should Keep a Planner</strong></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A syllabus is one of the most critical documents you’ll receive throughout your college career, and you’ll be at a disadvantage if you don’t use it. Keep all your documents on hand and review them several times through the semester as a refresher for course expectations and deadlines. You may find most answers to your questions right in your syllabi, whether it’s about grading or the chapters you must read each week.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>College life is a balancing act, and mastering this skill can be hard the first year. Learn </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/articles/living-campus/the-best-ways-to-balance-academics-and-socializing-as-a-college-freshman/"><strong>The Best Ways to Balance Academics and Socializing as a College Freshman</strong></a><strong> to keep up with it all!</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/9-simple-steps-to-create-an-ideal-study-space/9 Simple Steps to Create an Ideal Study Space2024-03-28T19:53:56.136430-04:00Isabel Kumar<p class="MsoNormal">Creating a productive and organized study space is essential for effective learning in high school and college. A well-designed environment can significantly impact your ability to focus, retain information, and succeed academically. Let’s explore the critical elements of building an optimal study space that maximizes efficiency and minimizes distractions.</p>
<h2>1. Choose the right location</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Choosing the right location for your study space is the first step toward productivity. Consider factors like noise levels, proximity to distractions, and access to natural light. Select a quiet corner of your home or the library away from high-traffic areas that also offer adequate lighting. A dedicated study room is ideal, but only some have that luxury. A quiet bedroom or living room corner can also work well.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Related: <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/video-college-study-spots/"><strong>Video: What's the Best College Study Spot?</strong></a></p>
<h2>2. Consider ergonomics and comfort</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Investing in a comfortable and ergonomic study chair and desk is crucial, as your posture and physical comfort significantly affect your ability to focus and study efficiently. Ensure that your chair supports your back and that the desk is at an appropriate height to prevent strain and discomfort during long study sessions.</p>
<h2>3. Get organized</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">A cluttered study space can be a significant distraction. <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/how-get-organized-and-manage-your-time-high-school/">Keep your workspace organized</a> with storage solutions like shelves, drawers, or file cabinets to stow away textbooks, stationery, and other materials. Also utilize organizers and trays to keep smaller items like pens, pencils, and paper neatly arranged.</p>
<h2>4. Personalize your space to get inspired</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">You can customize your study space with a variety of elements that inspire you. Whether it's motivational quotes, artwork, or personal mementos, surrounding yourself with <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/articles/living-campus/ultimate-guide-decorating-dorm-room-walls/">positive and motivating decor</a> can boost your productivity. However, be mindful not to over-clutter with decorations that can become distractions.</p>
<h2>5. Ensure you have adequate lighting</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Proper lighting is crucial for reducing eye strain and maintaining focus. A combination of natural and artificial lighting is ideal. Position your desk near a window to benefit from natural light during the day. In the evening, invest in a good desk lamp with adjustable brightness to ensure optimal lighting conditions.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/how-make-your-dorm-perfect-study-space/"><strong>How to Make Your Dorm the Perfect Study Space</strong></a></p>
<h2>6. Minimize digital distractions</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">In today's digital age, managing technology in your study space is essential. Keep your phone, tablet, and other potential distractions out of arm's reach. Also consider using website blockers or apps that temporarily limit your access to social media and other distracting websites during study hours.</p>
<h2>7. Add some time management tools</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Incorporating time management tools into your study space will help you stay on track. A wall calendar, digital timer, or whiteboard for setting daily goals and tracking progress can be invaluable. When you’re settled into a study session, break it into manageable chunks with scheduled breaks to <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/feeling-burnt-out-5-steps-get-back-track/">prevent burnout</a>.</p>
<h2>8. Cut down the noise</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Controlling noise levels in your study space is vital. If you’re in a busy space and can’t avoid the noise, consider using noise-canceling headphones or playing soft, instrumental music to create a soothing auditory backdrop. Find what works best for you to drown out distractions effectively.</p>
<h2>9. Don’t forget about regular maintenance</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Maintaining your study space regularly will keep it organized and conducive to productivity. Schedule periodic cleanups and decluttering sessions to ensure your workspace remains an environment that supports your focus and success. Change your desk as needed as well; seeing what works best for you often takes trial and error.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/operation-anti-clutter-how-clean-your-dorm-room/"><strong>Operation Anti-Clutter: How to Clean Up Your Dorm Room</strong></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A well-organized, productive study space is invaluable to your educational journey. By carefully selecting the right location, creating a comfortable and personalized environment, and implementing tools for time management and focus, you can significantly enhance your ability to learn and retain information effectively. Remember that the key is to tailor your study space to your unique preferences and needs, allowing you to reach your full academic potential.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Looking for even more ways to get organized as a student? Check out </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/tags/organization/"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">the “organization" tag</strong></a><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> for advice on managing your time, keeping a planner, taking notes, and keeping track of everything!</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/college-students-quick-guide-to-health-developing-good-habits/College Students' Quick Guide to Health: Developing Good Habits2024-03-28T19:53:56.134416-04:00Emma Robinson<p>Developing healthy habits and sticking to them is admittedly difficult. They can feel strenuous and overwhelming to upkeep, which is a big reason why so many of us have trouble starting them! This is especially true for habits that have to do with school. But developing good academic habits in college is essential for setting future you up for success and staying healthy, both mentally and physically. With the right mindset, some self-awareness of your capabilities and limits, and goals to keep you motivated, making good habits stick gets a whole lot easier. Here are a few key skills and areas you should focus on to help you as a student.</p>
<h2>Time management</h2>
<p>One good habit that is one of the most difficult to develop is time management. <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/deep-dive-procrastination-and-how-stop-it/">Procrastination is incredibly common</a> among students—and incredibly hard to get out of. While it may feel satisfying to finish a large project all at once, it’s not good for our mental well-being or work ethic; we then develop a pattern of thinking that all difficult tasks can and/or should be completed in a short period of time. Couple this with the feelings of anxiety procrastinating creates and our brains learn to not feel any urgency or motivation to do a task until the due date is close and immediate.</p>
<p>To help prevent this vicious cycle and develop productive time management habits, you must first and foremost admit that you struggle with time management and take accountability for your actions. The more you excuse it, the more time it will take for you to curb the habit. Studying with a group is one way to help hold yourself accountable because you'll have peers to help keep you on task. However, if you're like me and end up talking to the other person the entire time when you’re supposed to be studying, there are other methods you can try. By changing your study environment from your bed or dorm to the library or your desk, you’ll set up a pattern of associating the space you're in with work, which can keep you motivated. It's also helpful to set realistic goals and make lists; that way, you’ll have something to achieve and have the satisfaction of physically crossing items off.</p>
<p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/4-techniques-improve-your-time-management/">4 Techniques to Improve Your Time Management</a></p>
<h2>Studying and learning</h2>
<p>Another healthy habit that’s beneficial to any student is to find a study style that fits you. An editorial by the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences lists <a href="https://www.usa.edu/blog/study-techniques/">10 study methods to help students learn</a>. Let’s focus on just four of them: Retrieval Practice, Spaced Practice, the PQ4R Method, and the Feynman Technique.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Retrieval Practice</strong> involves utilizing practice tests, writing questions on your notes then revisiting to answer them, and flashcards. Through practice and review, you can build your information-retrieval skills, preventing the “I know the answer, but I can't remember it” phenomenon.</li>
<li><strong>The Spaced Practice Method</strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> is a lengthier way of studying because it involves reviewing what you’ve learned in intervals. For example, day one could be spent learning the content, day two could be reviewing your notes and writing questions, day three is revisiting and answering those questions and coming up with new ones, and so forth.</span></li>
<li><strong>The PQ4R Method</strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> stands for Preview, Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, and Review. Skim what you're studying and </span><a style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;" href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/how-take-better-notes-high-school-and-college/">get the main ideas down</a><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">, then question the topic and ask yourself what you already know. Next, read the content, reflect on the knowledge you gained, and write a summary in your own words. Lastly, review it to see if you have any outstanding questions that haven't been answered yet.</span></li>
<li><strong>The Feynman Technique</strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> involves explaining the subject as if you were teaching it. Either write it down or speak aloud (if you speak aloud, try recording it). Afterward, read or listen back and identify the points you missed and the ones you got wrong. Identifying the weak points in your learning instead of focusing on what you remember is essential to a well-rounded study schedule.</span></li>
</ul>
<h2>Organization</h2>
<p>Another difficult but beneficial habit to get into in college is organization. There are many different types of organization, including physical (<a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/operation-anti-clutter-how-clean-your-dorm-room/">cleaning your desk/workspace</a>), digital (<a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/admission/articles/college-applications/how-to-digitize-and-organize-important-college-and-scholarship-documents/">organizing digital documents</a> into files or using flash drives), and mental (making lists and color coding). All are helpful, and it's best to first figure out what method of organization you adhere to the most. You can find a bunch of scheduling techniques and tips online, but <a href="https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-be-organized">according to Indeed</a>, one particularly helpful method of organization is time blocking, or allotting a certain amount of time to a certain task. You should take the time constraints you create seriously but also understand that time blocking is not a concrete method—it's meant to be flexible and allow for last-minute changes and requests. Taking, say, an hour to read a chapter for your English class and 30 minutes to take notes gives you a schedule that is easy to follow. If you're a student who benefits from having a set schedule, this method could be perfect for you.</p>
<p>If you’re a more visual person, it can be helpful to make a list or use color coding to stay organized. That way, what you have to do for the day is out and “in your face,” acting as a consistent reminder. Personally, I like to put each task for the day on an individual sticky note (e.g., one sticky note for “English chapter 3 reading,” another for “Spanish vocabulary review,” and so on). Throughout the day, once I've completed each task, I take the sticky note off the wall and throw it away. With this method, you get the physical reward of removing or crossing out a task, and you also get to see the number of assignments you have dwindle, allowing for a more immediate feeling of accomplishment.</p>
<p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/5-easy-ways-get-organized-college/">5 Easy Ways to Get Organized in College</a></p>
<p>College is difficult, there’s no doubt about it. Between studying for tests, reading a surplus of material for each class, writing long research papers, and getting up for 8:00 am labs, it can be hard to keep your own health in check. Not feeling like you have enough time for yourself is one of the most challenging aspects of any academic environment. However, with patience, self-awareness, accountability, and an understanding of your strengths and limits, the weight of academic stress will begin to slack. With a healthy body, a clear mind, and good academic habits, you’ll be able to better manage and enjoy this new, wonderful part of your life. As a result, young adulthood will feel less overwhelming and more exciting.</p>
<p><strong>Did you catch the first two parts of this series? Learn more about <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/college-students-quick-guide-to-health-taking-care-of-your-body/">taking care of your body</a> and <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/student-life/blog/college-students-quick-guide-to-health-taking-care-of-your-mind/">prioritizing your mental health</a> in college—you don’t want to miss this important advice!</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/10-cool-virtual-camps-high-school-students-can-join-over-winter-break/10 Cool Virtual Camps High School Students Can Join Over Winter Break2024-03-28T19:53:56.131774-04:00Lindsey Conger<p class="MsoNormal">Summer is typically when high school students focus heavily on résumé building to stand out to colleges. They attend programs, do intensive volunteer work, or focus on passion projects. However, many students miss out on a key time to find experiential opportunities: winter break. With most students having two or three weeks off school, this is a prime opportunity to do something productive. Get a jump-start on gaining hands-on experience in your desired field of study by attending a winter break camp! You’ll continue building on your experiences and make yourself more competitive for top summer programs. There are quite a few opportunities for students to take advantage of. Better yet, all these recommendations are virtual, so you can still travel for the holidays, spend time with friends and family, or juggle a few weeks of overlap with second-semester classes.</p>
<h2>1. Medicine: An Inside Look at Treating Patients</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/georgetown-university/1100973/details/">Georgetown University</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>December 17–31; January 7–February 4; January 21–February 4</li>
<li><strong>Cost: </strong>$1,495–$1,795</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>13+ years old</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>December 10; December 31; January 14</li>
<li><strong>Overview:</strong> <a href="https://georgetown.precollegeprograms.org/medicine">Georgetown’s pre-college medicine program</a> gives students insight into the patient journey, including an overview of the different roles of a health care team and an exploration of various treatment plans. If you’re thinking of doing the Pre-med path, this is the program for you.</li>
</ul>
<h2>2. Myths Revisited: Unraveling Ancient Tales in Modern Times</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://greatbookssummer.com/">Great Books Summer Program</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>December 27–29, 1:00–5:00 pm ET</li>
<li><strong>Cost:</strong> $450</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>9th–12th grade</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>Rolling admission</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong><a href="https://greatbookssummer.com/gb_program/winter-break-programs/">This Great Books Winter Break course</a> is taught by Academic Director Michael Harrington, a PhD candidate at <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/princeton-university/1100160/details/">Princeton University</a> in the Department of English. It covers how narratives continue to influence our lives in the modern era. Students will talk about the myths of Greece and Rome as well as works by Anne Carson, Virgil, Sylvia Plath, and more. If you’re a night owl, you can also check out “Nature: How Do We Fit In?”—an international class taking place December 28–30 from 8:00 pm–12:00 am.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a class="inquiry_btn btn go sm mb-0 tracked" href="#" data-event-category="More Info" data-event-action="Inquiry" data-event-label="Content" data-edition="" data-scid="1100160" data-profile="2000241">Connect me with Princeton!</a></p>
<h2>3. Molecular Medicine workshops</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.rosettainstitute.org/">Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Research</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>December 26–31</li>
<li><strong>Cost: </strong>$570 (virtual) or $1,590–$1,790 (in person)</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>11–18 years old</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>Rolling admission</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong><a href="https://www.rosettainstitute.org/biomedical-summer-camps/">Rosetta Institute</a> offers two virtual winter options: The Medical Bioinformatics and the Medicinal Chemistry workshops. Two commuter options are also available, allowing students to take the Biomedical Research workshop at their facility in Alameda, California, and the Cancer Research at their facility in Berkley. All camps, virtual or otherwise, take place on the same dates.</li>
</ul>
<h2>4. Rising Researchers</h2>
<ul>
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Host: </strong><a href="https://moonprep.com/">Moon Prep</a></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dates</strong>: Every Tuesday and Friday from December 19–January 12, 7:00–8:30 pm ET</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cost</strong>: $3,200</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Age requirements</strong>: 9<sup>th</sup>–12<sup>th</sup> grade</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Deadline</strong>: Rolling admission (space is limited)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Overview</strong>: A sister company of Moon Prep, <a href="http://www.risingresearchers.com/">Rising Researchers</a> offers a four-week virtual camp where students study social determinants of health in cardiovascular disease and learn how public health impacts medicine. You’ll work alongside peers in a small class cohort under the guidance of a research mentor.</li>
</ul>
<h2>5. BioImaging & 3D-Printing (BI3DP)</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/university-of-california-san-diego/1100866/details/">University of California, San Diego</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>January 20–March 9</li>
<li><strong>Cost: </strong>$2,500</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>10<sup>th</sup>–12<sup>th</sup> grade, 14+ years old</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>Rolling admission</li>
<li><strong>Overview:</strong> UC San Diego’s <a href="https://researchscholars.ucsd.edu/currentprograms/bioengineering/index.html#I.-BioEngineering-Broad-Overvie">Bioengineering Broad Overview and Techniques (BE-BOAT)</a> courses require students to commit about four to 10 hours per week over six weeks. The lectures and discussions will take place on Saturdays, and students will have one to three hours during the week with the program assistants. You’ll learn hands-on skills related to biomedical imaging and 3D printing and get an at-home kit to perform exercises, including remote 3D printing of plates and medical models.</li>
</ul>
<h2>6. Personalized Medicine: Customizing Care Through Genetics</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/university-of-rochester/1100166/details/">University of Rochester</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>December 17–31</li>
<li><strong>Cost:</strong> $995</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements:</strong> 13+ years old</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>December 10 (closed for this winter, but there are summer and winter opportunities next year!)</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong><a href="https://rochesteronline.precollegeprograms.org/medicine#section-learning">This course from the University of Rochester</a> teaches students how our genetic codes make everyone unique. Learn how traits are passed on and how genetic breakthroughs can change medicine. The course covers stem cell therapy, gene editing, and how designing traits can affect treatment and health outcomes. At the end of the course, students will create a capstone project identifying a particular disease and discussing how personalized medicine might be used to treat it.</li>
</ul>
<h2>7. <em>energymag</em> internship program</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://energymag.net/">EnergyMag.net</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>Varies between one to nine months</li>
<li><strong>Cost: </strong>Free</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>10<sup>th</sup>–12<sup>th</sup> grade</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>Rolling admission</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong>This <a href="https://energymag.net/internships/">free internship program from <em>energymag</em></a> teaches students how to research and analyze scientific and business issues. Throughout their internship, students will produce a draft analysis report that will be published on the blog at the end of the program. Interns are expected to work eight hours a week, and applicants should have at least a 3.5 GPA.</li>
</ul>
<h2>8. Center for Talented Youth online courses</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/johns-hopkins-university/2400120/details/">Johns Hopkins University</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>Varies</li>
<li><strong>Cost: </strong>$695–$2,130</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>2<sup>nd</sup>–12<sup>th</sup> grade</li>
<li><strong>Deadline:</strong> Varies depending on class</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong>The <a href="https://cty.jhu.edu/programs/online/courses?field_qualifying_level_value=CTY&field_eligibility_course_type_value=All&program_type%5B%5D=35&grade%5B%5D=1&grade%5B%5D=2&grade%5B%5D=3&grade%5B%5D=4&grade%5B%5D=5&grade%5B%5D=6&grade%5B%5D=7&grade%5B%5D=8&grade%5B%5D=9&grade%5B%5D=10&grade%5B%5D=11&topic%5B%5D=128576&topic%5B%5D=128575&topic%5B%5D=128572&topic%5B%5D=126668&topic%5B%5D=128574&topic%5B%5D=128573">Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth</a> offers a wide variety of online courses for elementary, middle, and high school students to take over winter break, including Arabic Language, Art Meets Science: Literature, Interdisciplinary STEM Essay Writing, Chess, Introduction to Forensics, and Storytelling through Art, Film & Media.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a class="inquiry_btn btn go sm mb-0 tracked" href="#" data-event-category="More Info" data-event-action="Inquiry" data-event-label="Content" data-edition="" data-scid="2400120" data-profile="2004031">Connect me with Johns Hopkins!</a></p>
<h2>9. Beaver Works Summer Institute</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/massachusetts-institute-of-technology/1100243/details/">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>February 1–June 16</li>
<li><strong>Cost: </strong>Free</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements:</strong> 9<sup>th</sup>–12<sup>th</sup> grade</li>
<li><strong>Deadline: </strong>Rolling admission</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong>Registration for <a href="https://beaverworks.ll.mit.edu/CMS/bw/bwsi">Beaver Works Summer Institute</a> online courses opened in December. Nominations from teachers or counselors are not required, and students are encouraged to self-register. Course topics include Serious Game Development With AI, Embedded Security & Hardware Hacking, Autonomous RACECAR Grand Prix, Quantum Software, Cyber Ops, and much more.</li>
</ul>
<h2>10. Precollege Studies online courses</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Host: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/college/cornell-university/1100516/details/">Cornell University</a></li>
<li><strong>Dates: </strong>January 2–19</li>
<li><strong>Cost:</strong> $1,750 per credit</li>
<li><strong>Age requirements: </strong>11<sup>th</sup> and 12<sup>th</sup> grade, 15+ years old</li>
<li><strong>Deadline:</strong> December 4 (Winter Session applications are now closed; sign up to be alerted about the Summer Session or future Winter Sessions.)</li>
<li><strong>Overview: </strong>A wide variety of options are available through <a href="https://sce.cornell.edu/precollege/program/online">Cornell University Online Courses</a>, including Global Business Strategy, Digital Platforms & Public Engagement, Biomedical Terminology, and Change-making: Designing Healthy & Hospitable Environments. All courses will earn you a Cornell transcript to be transferred wherever you choose to attend college.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Related: <a class="large-title" href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/5-benefits-pre-college-summer-programs/">5 Benefits of Pre-College Summer Programs</a></strong></p>
<p>Participating in a virtual camp through a college or professional organization is sure to keep you sharp over winter break and strengthen your high school résumé. Free options are available, and you may be able to apply for scholarships to help bring down the cost of the more expensive programs. Whatever you do, have an enjoyable and productive vacation, and be sure to take some time to relax as well!</p>
<p><strong>Don’t sweat the cost of these programs! Instead, head over to our <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/scholarships/search">Scholarship Search tool</a> to apply for awards that could help you pay for them.</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/4-unique-study-techniques-for-when-the-usual-tricks-fail-you/4 Unique Study Techniques for When the Usual Tricks Fail You2024-03-28T19:53:56.129354-04:00Zymal Ahmed<p class="MsoNormal">Speaking with <em>lots</em> of experience, studying can be hard—especially if you’re using the same old methods as always. Most students prefer common study methods such as reading, annotating, or the Pomodoro Technique. While these are effective to a point, these study techniques will eventually be so exhausted that they have nothing left to give you. That’s when you should consider using a more unconventional method of studying to reinvigorate your learning. The following tips and tricks have proved to be the most effective and interesting I’ve found.</p>
<h2>1. Teach the topic</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">This might sound and feel a bit silly to do, but teaching a topic you’re struggling with to a family member (or even an invisible audience) is a very effective technique for truly understanding something. The reason is that it prompts you to think more deeply and reach for the extent of your knowledge to talk about it, therefore helping you identify any gaps. It <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/3-tips-to-improve-your-reading-retention-for-school/">helps with retaining the information</a> since you’re more actively engaged and reinforcing your understanding. It also prevents you from going into zombie auto-pilot mode, where you read but don’t comprehend any of the information.</p>
<h2>2. Create incentives for yourself</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Giving yourself a little prize every time you complete an assignment, fully grasp a concept, or finish a chapter can be a serious motivator. Once your brain finds out about the prize, it has a clear goal, which is to get the reward. It’s also <em>really</em> good for the brain’s reward pathways with the dopamine that will be released upon earning the prize. To put it simply, it’s like dangling a carrot in front of a horse; the carrot is there to keep the horse moving, and you can do the same for your brain. Pick something you really enjoy as your reward, and your brain will want to reach your goal. Although you can be flexible about how you choose to reward yourself, make sure that your treat doesn’t distract you too much. Achieving your goal should be the priority, which means it’s important to avoid addictive platforms such as social media and video games that’ll prevent you from returning to your work.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/our-best-advice-homework-studying-and-tests/"><strong>Our Best Advice for Homework, Studying, and Tests</strong></a></p>
<h2>3. Write a story or song</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">This is another silly one, but it’s also a solid method. Sometimes (more like most of the time) a textbook is tedious, repetitive, and filled with unfamiliar words that can be a bit frustrating. To <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/ask-experts/how-do-college-students-get-through-all-those-reading-assignments/">make the reading experience more fun</a> and help you better understand the topic, try writing a story or singing a song to retain and connect with the information on a deeper level. It can also allow you to see what pieces you’re missing and fill in those gaps. This can be especially helpful when doing homework for history or English. Writing it in a more creative, emotionally connected language can create a better visual, therefore building a better understanding of a complex subject. This creative method will lead you to learn in a more imaginative way!</p>
<h2>4. Make it a game</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are countless ways to make a boring topic into an engaging game. This method will actively force you to think about the concepts as you design the game <em>and</em> as you play. Playing a game you design reinforces your understanding through your motivation to win—similar to our reward system tip. Although it may not be your greatest concern in the moment of designing the game, it’s also helping you innovate and <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/secret-creativity-procrastination/">flex your creativity skills</a>. The only boundary you have is to remain accurate concerning the topic; otherwise, the sky is the limit and the universe is your gameboard!</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/can-you-make-studying-more-fun/"><strong>5 Simple Ways You Can Make Studying More Fun</strong></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Traditional study methods don’t work for everyone, and they may not always work if you use them <em>all</em> the time. That’s why it’s important to get creative! Keep in mind that these are not the only unconventional methods of study. These are just a few suggestions that work for me and you can put your own spin on them. Study in any way you prefer, only doing what works best for you. However, if you feel you’re missing something when you’re studying, give some of these strategies a try to see if any help you.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Did you know every learner retains information differently from their peers? Don’t do what works for just anyone—<a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/infographic-find-your-learning-style-and-study-smarter/">find out what <em>your</em> learning style is</a> with this infographic!</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/3-amazing-benefits-of-becoming-an-academic-tutor/3 Amazing Benefits of Becoming an Academic Tutor2024-03-28T19:53:56.127306-04:00Zymal Ahmed<p class="MsoNormal">Becoming a tutor can be incredibly rewarding not just for the student being tutored but also for the tutor. And the best part about pursuing a job as a tutor is there’s no experience required! It’s simple to get signed up with a multitude of tutoring platforms to get a quick start in a subject you’re passionate about. There are also many benefits to taking on this part-time job and extracurricular activity, but let’s take a look at three of the most impactful: developing a deeper understanding of the subject you’re teaching, building your confidence, and helping someone else learn.</p>
<h2>1. Improve your craft</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Teaching a subject like math or physics to someone else can help you <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/refine-these-4-important-academic-skills-by-learning-to-play-chess/">improve your own academic skills</a> in many ways. For one, it encourages you to understand the topic better because you must be able to explain concepts with depth and clarity to someone else. In fact, it doesn’t just improve your craft in your subject area but also your approaches to teaching. Consider this: If a student isn’t following your explanations, they will hopefully let you know so you can adjust to accommodate them—forcing you to improve upon your methods of communication. This will contribute to your personal growth as a tutor and person. In addition, constantly solving problems and answering questions relevant to the subject reinforces ideas and helps build more skillful approaches to problem-solving.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/interests/health-medicine/blog/must-have-skills-science-majors-part-1/"><strong>How to Improve These Must-Have Skills for Science Majors</strong></a></p>
<h2>2. Build your confidence</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Tutoring is an opportunity to develop some confidence and <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/5-effective-tips-to-improve-your-public-speaking-skills/">public speaking skills</a>. Even though your audience will most often be only one student, it’s still a great opportunity to practice speaking with confidence. As you continue to converse with different people, you’ll become more adaptable in making sure to accommodate each student to improve their understanding and your teaching skills. This ability will become key to presenting yourself and your lessons confidently because it will help ease you out of your nervousness. This is a necessary skill for life, not just your tutoring career. It’s extremely important to learn how to carry yourself with self-assurance. Practice is required to improve any skill, and you can begin developing this one by becoming a tutor. </p>
<h2>3. Gain mutual satisfaction through helping others</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Helping people understand concepts is very satisfying for both tutors and students because it gives you both a sense of fulfillment. Naturally, watching someone make academic progress and being credited with it is important to feeling successful at your job. Not only that, but acknowledging your progress as a tutor is comforting because you see yourself mastering the subject you chose to teach and your ability to teach concepts with clarity along with the confidence you’ve built. The satisfaction of a job well done is a great incentive that drives you to work even harder. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/3-benefits-of-tutoring-plus-tips-to-make-the-most-of-it/"><strong>3 Benefits of Tutoring, Plus Tips to Make the Most of It</strong></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It’s beneficial to consider <em>all </em>the advantages of tutoring since they’re not limited to the ones mentioned above. Tutoring in high school or college can be a great experience, and if there’s a subject you’re good at and feel you could teach to someone else, you should definitely consider this opportunity. Whether you can make some money tutoring or just use it to strengthen your résumé, it’s an easy way to build life skills, reinforce concepts, and feel academic satisfaction.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>If you get a deep sense of fulfillment from tutoring, consider the <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/interests/education/blog/why-you-should-consider-degree-education/">benefits of majoring in Education</a> as you explore future career paths! </strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/5-unexpected-reasons-to-become-a-tutor-in-college/5 Unexpected Reasons to Become a Tutor in College2024-03-28T19:53:56.125691-04:00Savannah Harris<p class="MsoNormal">A good way to figure out whether you’re truly learning in college is to teach other people—to become a tutor. College tutors are like professors except more casual, personal, and hands-on. As a student, you can tutor your peers in a subject that you’re knowledgeable and excited about. If you’re thinking about becoming a tutor in college, consider what skills you have in your pocket and which ones you could pick up. These five unexpected benefits may make it easier for you to decide.</p>
<h2>1. It teaches you diverse perspectives</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">College classes are a great opportunity to expand your intellectual horizons. But tutors get to do this outside the classroom as well. As a tutor, you can meet people with diverse cultural backgrounds, skills, and academic interests. Tutors must have superior critical-thinking abilities to see the unique ways people think and how different people approach education differently. A tutor’s job is to teach their student not just <em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">what</em> to think but <em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how</em> to think. Your job is to see how your student conceptualizes information and work with them on elevating their understanding. Everyone you tutor won’t think the same way. As you discover <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/infographic-find-your-learning-style-and-study-smarter/">different learning styles</a>, you can tailor your teaching methods to satisfy the diverse needs of your students. Exposure to diverse perspectives will make you a better student as well.</p>
<p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/3-benefits-of-tutoring-plus-tips-to-make-the-most-of-it/">3 Benefits of Tutoring, Plus Tips to Make the Most of It</a></p>
<h2>2. You’ll make meaningful connections</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">In college, you’ll make many meaningful connections with your peers. Tutoring is a built-in community where peer collaboration is the foundation of success. As you and your students work together toward a common goal or to solve a problem, you can mutually grow. To do that, you need to meet them where they are and understand that your connection is based on trust. To build a real connection with them, you should be reliable so that they feel supported through their academic struggles. You'll know you’ve built a good connection if your student continues to reach out for help. You may even build lasting friendships beyond just personalized study.</p>
<h2>3. It’s personally and professionally rewarding</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Being a tutor takes time and dedication. After devoting countless hours of your free time, you might even get a monetary reward. But the real reward is watching your student have those “<em>aha</em>” moments. This will give you a sense of fulfillment knowing you’re helping others overcome obstacles in their educational journey. You’ll feel accomplished knowing you got them halfway to success and watched them cross the finish line. When you collaborate and put your minds together, both parties benefit. On non-competitive college campuses, this synergistic spirit of cooperation is pretty common. People form study groups and ask their peers for guidance all the time, even before <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/video-all-things-office-hours/">consulting the professor</a>. In a sense, everyone tutors each other. The feeling of accomplishment comes when you realize that, as a tutor, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re helping others.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/7-savvy-habits-to-help-you-become-a-highly-effective-student/"><strong>7 Savvy Habits to Help You Become a Highly Effective Student</strong></a></p>
<h2>4. You’ll become a better communicator</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">Have you ever had a professor who didn’t properly explain the material and you left the lecture just as confused as when you entered it, if not more? It’s not a good feeling. It’s your responsibility as a tutor to ensure your pupils don’t feel this way. One of the hardest things about tutoring is getting someone to understand where they went wrong and how to improve. Tutors need to be able to verbally <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/5-effective-tips-to-improve-your-public-speaking-skills/">communicate complex concepts clearly and efficiently</a>. Recognize that what’s simple for you might be challenging for your student. You need to be patient and willing to reiterate information, especially if it’s important. Ask clarifying questions to ensure they understand. Communication is a two-way street, so encourage your students to speak up as much as you. With practice, your communication skills will improve.</p>
<h2>5. You’ll grow as a person</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal">While tutors are supposed to help their students brush up on their academic skills, they’re bound to gain some skills of their own along the way. By taking on responsibilities to organize study sessions and give support, you’ll grow as a leader. You’ll take the lead in making sure each session is productive and efficient. You’ll also naturally become more empathetic because you’ll have firsthand experience of your students’ strengths and triumphs. The experience will make you more compassionate as you adapt to different learning needs and watch students go from being vulnerable to confident.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/interests/education/blog/what-it-means-be-teacher/"><strong>What It Means to Be a Teacher</strong></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 12.0pt 0in 12.0pt 0in;">Thinking about applying to be a tutor in college? You'll have to give up a lot of your free time, but it will pay off. If you can be flexible, accessible, and supportive, you’ll be a great tutor and the benefits will outweigh the sacrifices. Get ready to grow as a person and student right along with your tutees!</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Our student writers have so much great advice to help you make the most of high school and college! Check out more of their articles under our </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/tags/student-advice/"><strong>“student advice” tag</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/academic-ethics-how-to-avoid-plagiarism-and-cheating/Academic Ethics: How to Avoid Plagiarism and Cheating2024-03-28T19:53:56.123589-04:00Carolina Jacobs<p>The ethics of how students complete their work have absorbed the spotlight of academic discourse lately. Of course, learners have searched for ways to take the easy route on assignments ever since they first started receiving them. However, every essay and worksheet a student completes serves a great purpose, like teaching analytical thinking, problem-solving, and many other critical life skills. You shouldn’t rob yourself of academic value by plagiarizing or cheating to get your work done. But how do you define plagiarism and cheating? For instance, is there a responsible way to use artificial intelligence (AI) in your schoolwork to make it easier but not unoriginal work? Here’s everything you should know about the ethics of academia.</p>
<h2>Why academic integrity is crucial</h2>
<p>Teachers assign homework and tests to measure your comprehension levels and ensure you learn what you need not only to pass the class but also for the life ahead of you. A higher grade may mean you absorbed the material well, while lower ones often indicate what you may need to spend more time working on. That’s not to say the workload can’t be excessive—high schoolers <a href="https://onlinedegrees.sandiego.edu/education-inequity-and-homework/">average almost seven hours of homework</a> weekly!</p>
<p>Assignments and exams benefit both the educator and the student. You learn collaboration and critical-thinking skills, and your teachers discover your unique strengths and challenges and are better able to adapt to your learning needs. Academic integrity also ensures you gain the knowledge required for whatever career interests you; getting by as a doctoral medical student is much easier when you have strong foundations in biology from grade school, for instance.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/admission/articles/improve-your-chances/how-lose-your-college-acceptance/"><strong>How to Lose Your College Acceptance</strong></a></p>
<h2>Know what’s considered plagiarism and cheating</h2>
<p>The basic definition of plagiarism is when you try to pretend someone else’s thoughts are yours. For example, imagine <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/think-smarter-never-use-essay-service/">your professor asks for an essay</a> about your life and you turn in Walden by Henry David Thoreau. Or perhaps you get a few interesting details from the life story of whoever’s sitting next to you and mix them in with some of your own so you don’t have to work as hard. In either case, you’ve plagiarized by passing off someone’s ideas as your own while also ensuring that you’ve gained no educational benefit from the task.</p>
<p>While plagiarism is a form of cheating, there are plenty of other ways you can get in trouble for academic dishonesty. If you swipe the answer sheet from your teacher or keep your notes out during a closed-book test, you’re cheating. Another obvious option everyone knows is glancing at your neighbor’s paper for the answers. People often do these things if they feel like they don’t have enough time to review, are having trouble with the subject, or simply want to get a good grade without putting in the effort. While the first two concerns are understandable, the best option is to speak with your teacher for help in better comprehending the material and maybe even an extension to prepare.</p>
<p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/what-counts-plagiarism/">Plagiarism: What It Is and How to Avoid It on Assignments</a></p>
<h3>Is using AI in academics considered cheating?</h3>
<p>AI is currently driving the conversation on academic integrity. Adults have assumed students will use it to cheat, but <a href="https://studentedge.org/article/the-truth-about-using-ai-to-cheat-what-students-really-think">71% of learners who’ve used generative AI </a>said they have not and never plan to use it for such reasons. Most understand that tools like ChatGPT merely cobbles other people’s ideas together from the internet, which is a form of plagiarism. However, there’s no consensus on whether using it for help with assignments is cheating.</p>
<p>Students who use AI for their homework assignments mainly use it to explain information—much like how they would ask their teacher for help in school. As long as you’re not using artificial intelligence to complete your work for you, it’s okay to ask it a few questions for clarity. However, if your school prohibits AI use, it’s better to do things the old-fashioned way and save your queries for your classmates, professors, or Google Search.</p>
<h2>How students can uphold ethical academic standards</h2>
<p>It’s easy to uphold your academic integrity in many ways. Perhaps most important of all is to ask your teachers questions when you’re confused or require more time. You’re far more likely to find an answer and learn a concept by speaking up when you need help or an extension. Asking friends is also fine, but make sure you’re getting their guidance—not just copying their answers. Other ways you can uphold ethical academic standards include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ensuring you give yourself enough time to study and complete assignments by planning ahead if you know when they’re due</li>
<li>Staying after school with a teacher or going to a professor’s office hours when you need more thorough help</li>
<li>Communicating with your educators if you have time constraints, like working after school or caring for siblings</li>
<li>Discussing study tips with your teachers to find <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/infographic-find-your-learning-style-and-study-smarter/">what learning style works best for you</a></li>
<li>Learning the <a href="https://www.citationmachine.net/resources/cite-sources/">proper way to cite information</a> to avoid accidental plagiarism</li>
<li>Using AI for clarification rather than to generate answers</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/7-savvy-habits-to-help-you-become-a-highly-effective-student/">7 Savvy Habits to Help You Become a Highly Effective Student</a></p>
<p>Avoiding plagiarism and cheating is vital for success later in life. While some parts of what you’re learning might seem unnecessary, they could be significant to your career because you never know where it will take you. Additionally, academic work teaches soft skills that benefit you personally and professionally. Ask questions and learn to plan well to avoid a time-crunch scenario that tempts you to be academically dishonest.</p>
<p><strong>Don’t let the fear of a bad grade get you down! Take advantage of all <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/our-best-advice-homework-studying-and-tests/">Our Best Advice for Homework, Studying, and Tests</a> to make sure you get that A with integrity.</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/the-benefits-of-collaborative-learning-through-peer-teaching/The Benefits of Collaborative Learning Through Peer Teaching2024-03-28T19:53:56.121798-04:00Carolina Jacobs<p>As the name implies, peer teaching is an educational practice in which students teach and learn from one another. It involves taking on the role of a teacher to explain concepts or skills to your classmates while also learning from them. This approach can take many forms, from structured activities like peer tutoring and mentoring to less formal methods like group discussions and study groups. Whether you have an exam coming up or just feel like you’re in deep waters in a new course, the benefits of collaborative learning will help improve your level of preparedness. Peer teaching supports an environment that allows you and your fellow students to acquire knowledge and skills for enhanced academic outcomes. Explore the key advantages of studying and solving problems together as well as a few tips on how to take part in these initiatives effectively.</p>
<h2>Engaged learning</h2>
<p>Peer teaching within study groups promotes active learning, which helps ensure everyone is involved and engaged throughout the process. Rather than passively receiving lessons from a teacher or textbook, you and your study buddies actively engage in the learning process by participating in discussions and analyzing concepts together. This increased involvement improves critical-thinking skills and helps participants articulate ideas effectively.</p>
<h2>Deeper subject matter comprehension</h2>
<p>Teaching and explaining concepts to your peers is a powerful way to <a href="https://scienceready.com.au/blogs/hsc-science-tips-advice/why-you-should-learn-by-teaching-the-protege-effect#:~:text=Teaching%20others%20requires%20you%20to,notes%20and%20using%20flash%20cards.">reinforce your knowledge</a> of a subject and enhance information recall. It can also help identify gaps or misconceptions in your learning as you and your peers work through challenging concepts together. Furthermore, peer teaching and collaborative learning activities allow students to gain insights from diverse perspectives. Each classmate brings a unique viewpoint to the table, contributing to a richer learning environment, which ultimately results in a more comprehensive understanding of the material.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; line-height: normal;"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/reading-youre-doing-it-wrong/"><strong>6 Quick Tips for Better Reading Comprehension</strong></a></p>
<h2>Improved communication skills</h2>
<p>Teaching and learning within study groups also allows students to develop and refine their communication skills. Taking turns explaining ideas in a group setting requires expanding your diction skills to ensure you’re using appropriate language to convey information clearly and concisely. This practice helps participants become better communicators, which will serve them well in the classroom and throughout their careers and personal lives.</p>
<h2>Higher academic achievement</h2>
<p>Peer teaching is a great way to supplement traditional instruction in the classroom for improved academic performance. A recent study showed that <a href="https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/how-peer-tutoring-can-transform-high-school-academics/">roughly 54% of students</a> who underwent peer tutoring passed a class they had previously failed. The reasoning behind this is obvious: Students who receive personalized assistance and become more actively engaged in the learning process are more likely to succeed.</p>
<h2>Inclusivity and diversity</h2>
<p>Having study buddies is not only a valuable tool for your academic performance but also a great way to promote inclusivity and diversity in the classroom. You’d be surprised by how much more you’ll learn by sharing ideas and solving problems with people from different backgrounds and experiences. Making sure everyone has an equal opportunity to teach and learn is a huge part of a supportive and functioning academic environment.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; line-height: normal;"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/interests/multicultural/blog/why-and-how-seek-out-different-political-perspectives-college/">Why and How to Seek Out Different Political Perspectives in College</a></p>
<h3>How to lead peer teaching activities</h3>
<p>Now that you know all the benefits of collaborative peer teaching, follow these helpful tips when you’re taking the lead on planning a learning exercise at your next group study session:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Choose your audience: </strong>You want to handpick peers who are genuinely interested in the subject matter and will be engaged in the learning process</li>
<li><strong>Set clear expectations:</strong> If you’re leading the study group, establish ground rules for participation and contributions early on to avoid confusion later.</li>
<li><strong>Highlight what’s in it for everyone:</strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> </span>Be clear about how your classmates stand to benefit and present it engagingly. Most Gen-Zers are <a href="https://www.givesmart.com/blog/peer-to-peer-fundraising-guide/">motivated by compelling storytelling</a> when it comes to peer-driven actions.</li>
<li><strong>Prepare your material:</strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> </span>Reviewing the material yourself before teaching will help organize your thoughts for clearer explanations of key concepts.</li>
<li><strong>Measure progress:</strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> </span>Incorporate self-assessment and peer reviews so group members can evaluate their progress, appreciate others’ contributions, and offer feedback on your group leadership.</li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; line-height: normal;"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/can-you-make-studying-more-fun/"><strong>5 Simple Ways You Can Make Studying More Fun</strong></a></p>
<p>Teaching and learning from your peers can be an effective way to get ahead in high school or college and strengthen any areas of weakness. Take advantage of these processes to improve your active learning, enhance your communication skills, and gain a deeper grasp of the subject matter.</p>
<p><strong>You and your study buddies can master anything with all <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/articles/study-smarter/our-best-advice-homework-studying-and-tests/">Our Best Advice for Homework, Studying, and Tests</a>. Be sure to share it with the group!</strong></p>http://www.CollegeXpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/beyond-the-textbook-4-places-to-look-for-modern-academic-resources/Beyond the Textbook: 4 Places to Look for Modern Academic Resources2024-03-28T19:53:56.120109-04:00Carolina Jacobs<p>Diverse learning resources are paramount to student success in today’s fast-paced educational landscape. You live in an era where information is constantly at your fingertips, making learning not just a task but a dynamic journey of discovery and personalization. Beyond traditional textbooks, there are so many other resources that offer unique perspectives and interactive experiences. These tools complement your course-assigned material to give you a more rounded and comprehensive understanding of your subjects. Exploring these learning resources can open doors to new understanding of complex topics and help you connect with educational communities worldwide. Here’s how the vast world of online platforms can enrich your learning and how to integrate these resources into your study routine.</p>
<h2>1. Educational apps</h2>
<p>Mobile apps offer tools and flashcards at your fingertips, changing how you learn languages and many other subjects. Whether you get in some studying while waiting for the bus or taking your lunch break, these apps exemplify the convenience of learning on the go. As long as you have reliable internet access, there’s no limit to what (and when) you can learn. Try downloading <a href="https://www.duolingo.com/">Duolingo</a> for language learning, <a href="https://quizlet.com/">Quizlet</a> for test prep, or <a href="https://elevateapp.com/">Elevate</a> for analytical skills. The interactive nature of phone apps makes education accessible, engaging, and fun!</p>
<p>Using learning apps can also foster a healthy mind and mental functions. By consuming regular, bite-sized sessions, you are gaining <a href="https://elearningindustry.com/content-chunking-enhancing-retention-in-bite-sized-learning">more effective long-term retention</a>. The satisfaction of completing levels or mastering a set of flashcards can also boost your confidence and motivate you to learn further. Integrating these apps into your daily routine will help you learn more efficiently and improve your mental well-being by making education a positive and rewarding experience.</p>
<h2>2. Podcasts and audiobooks</h2>
<p>Podcasts and audiobooks are fantastic resources that cater to auditory learners. Educational podcasts offer <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/interests/multicultural/blog/8-great-podcasts-to-help-you-to-learn-and-celebrate-black-history/">deep dives into topics from science to history</a> and beyond in an engaging and often entertaining format. Likewise, audiobooks provide access to a wealth of knowledge from classic literature to the latest nonfiction bestsellers. Most of these resources can be found free of charge through apps like <a href="https://open.spotify.com/">Spotify</a> or <a href="https://www.hoopladigital.com/">Hoopla</a>, which lets you borrow eBooks through your local library. These tend to be more accessible than paid courses or other resources.</p>
<p>The true beauty of these resources lies in their flexibility. Podcasts and audiobooks can turn travel or downtime into productive learning sessions, allowing you to absorb new information while commuting, exercising, or doing household chores. This learning method efficiently uses time and constantly expands your horizons. Incorporating podcasts and audiobooks into your studies can help you unlock the potential to learn something new every day, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/4-great-podcasts-listen-your-study-breaks/"><strong>4 Interesting Podcasts to Listen to on Your Study Breaks</strong></a></p>
<h2>3. Online platforms and e-learning</h2>
<p>The rise of online learning has significantly transformed the educational landscape. In the US, this market is <a href="https://www.watermarkinsights.com/resources/blog/trends-in-higher-education">projected to reach $87.51 billion</a> in revenue in 2024. These spaces cover nearly the entire spectrum of academic subjects, but what stands out once again is the flexibility they provide. You can learn at your own pace and choose when and where you study, aligning perfectly with your lifestyle and learning preferences. Whether you sign up for an individual class through a website like <a href="https://www.coursera.org/">Coursera</a> or choose to <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/pros-and-cons-online-college-education/">earn your college degree remotely</a>, online courses allow you to pause, rewind, and revisit lessons as needed to absorb and reflect on the material more deeply compared to a traditional classroom setting. This self-paced approach could lead to a better understanding and retention of knowledge. Moreover, it empowers you to tailor your education into a personalized learning experience that conventional methods rarely provide.</p>
<h2>4. Interactive and VR learning</h2>
<p>Educational virtual reality (VR) represents the pinnacle of immersive learning experiences. VR has the potential to transform how technologies teach subjects such as history, science, and art. This innovation allows you to virtually step into historical events, explore the intricacies of the human body, or walk through renowned art galleries from around the world. It provides a depth of understanding and engagement that traditional learning methods just can’t match. A study has even shown that students who utilized VR in their learning processes <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2022.965640/full">performed significantly better on visualization tasks</a>. It’s particularly evident in physics and mathematics, where understanding angles and vector components is crucial. VR aids in visualizing these concepts in three dimensions, significantly improving your problem-solving abilities and understanding of complex concepts. You also can learn to think more intuitively by engaging with content in an immersive environment.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/articles-and-advice/majors-and-academics/blog/how-improve-your-learning-online-video-lectures/"><strong>How to Improve Your Learning With Online Video Lectures</strong></a></p>
<p>Take charge of your education by diving into the world of diverse learning tools available to you. From mobile apps and online courses to podcasts and VR, these resources offer unique opportunities to deepen your understanding and broaden your learning abilities. By embracing these tools enthusiastically, you can unlock your full potential and propel yourself toward personal and academic growth that will serve you well in the future.</p>
<p><strong>Did you know CollegeXpress offers a bunch of great digital resources for high school and college students? All you need to do is <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/reg/signup">create a free account</a> (or log back in) to access them. Check out <a href="https://www.collegexpress.com/resources/">everything we have to help you with your college journey</a> now! </strong></p>