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Reading and Studying Skills |
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Historically, the need has existed for college reading and study skills programs in higher education. Studies have shown that college students' inadequate reading and study skills have existed since the 19th century, not only in public universities, but also in the nation's most prestigious institutions including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, and Columbia. The need continues as many students experience inadequate and unequal education. Conversely, even advanced students can benefit from study strategies and skills. In a survey designed to observe the actual study habits of college students, it was determined that even students who were succeeding at a highly competitive major university benefited from efficient study strategies. When average and advanced students enter college from high school, they encountered learning contexts previously unknown to them, and for which they had no experience or training. SSS participants, through the office of the Communications Specialist, may choose from several methods to improve their study habits:
One of the innovative approaches to helping students become active learners is VIDEO-BASED SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTION (VSI). VSI is an integrated learning program with four major components: preview of what is going to be covered; processing of a taped lecture series; review of what is covered each day, and how it relates to outside readings; and managed study time both during and outside of the VSI period. VSI is a unique program only available to SSS participants. The sessions are led by a UMBC graduate student who has been trained in VSI and in other innovative educational techniques, and who is directly supervised by the Communications Specialist. Eligibility for participation depends upon which courses SSS participants are registered for, and the likelihood that VSI would be successful for that participant. SSS participants have received VSI for History 100, Biology 100, 301, 302, 303, Geography 102, Political Science 300, 330, 409, Spanish 102, and Psychology 331, 340, 370, and 380. Participants who are currently enrolled in these courses may self-identify themselves as potential candidates for VSI. Other participants may be identified by the SSS professional staff. |
