The night before a test, as my classmates are stressing and reviewing their notes over and over, I feel calm and reassured that I can count on online study resources to help me in an efficient and stress-free way leading up to the test. Whether it is Quizlet, Khan Academy or Beeminder, online study tools help me target exactly what I need to focus on without wasting any time.
Sometimes when I study, I have trouble knowing where to start. I may be so lost in a topic that I lack the knowledge to even form a coherent question, or so deep into a specific problem that I lose sight of the overall message. When this happens, Khan Academy is my go-to solution.
Ranging from pre-algebra to personal finances, Khan Academy provides short videos and articles outlining the basics of every topic imaginable. Then, in order to ensure understanding, Khan Academy provides practice problems and sample tests.
Another online studying resource that I find effective is Beeminder, which relies on negative reinforcement, a method that isn’t usually popular, but proves effective when practicing time management or just trying to get through everything on my to-do list.
Once users enter information, such as their phone number, payment method and amount of money pledged to each task, there will be a red line with an icon moving farther across it the more progress is made on each goal. This helps users stay mindful of where they are in terms of a due date or personal timelines.
What sets Beeminder apart from other platforms is that when users cross the red line, failing to complete a task on time, the platform will charge the amount of money originally assigned to that task using your preferred payment method. It is a single time payment, increasing with every task missed. These tangible and immediate consequences can be especially helpful for procrastinators.
Next, Quizlet, arguably the most popular online studying tool, offers a range of strategies to study with. The flashcard feature is perfect for memorizing facts or definitions in an organized way.
Not only does Quizlet save me the hassle of going through all of my notes again to review, but it also saves me at least 15 index cards that would have then sat in the depths of my desk drawer until the end of the year.
One of the draws to Quizlet is its several interactive games for studying. For example, the matching game allows players to match the correct term with the definition. I like to use this in the earlier stages of studying when I am still unfamiliar with the content.
Similarly, the Quizlet Blast Game, where the player is given a prompt and gains points by shooting the asteroid with the correct answer before it disappears, is an efficient way of practicing time management while simultaneously studying flashcards. Additionally, in order to feel more prepared for the actual assessment, Quizlet offers a test feature, where it uses the flashcards to create a practice test consisting of both multiple choice and written answers.
As technology advances, we should not shy away from it. Rather, we should learn to utilize the tools to our advantage. Online studying resources are a great way to study, offering a wide variety of strategies and tools for everyone. Ultimately, when used thoughtfully, these tools should not replace hard work, but enhance it, making students more confident, independent and prepared learners.
