Active learning means understanding the subject matter your studying through different activities. The efforts allow you to evaluate the content rather than just memorizing the theory.

Getting Active

Active learning techniques become easier through regular use. Experiment with different methods to see which ones feel more natural than others.

Some Approaches

Create a mind map of a topic, linking ideas and information.
Simplify your notes to make them easier to read. Can you condense what you're learning into short statements?
Discuss thoughts and ideas with others.
Imagine you were explaining a concept to someone unfamiliar with it. How would you describe it?
Draw a sketch to illustrate a concept or idea.
Create a chart or diagram.
List bullet points of key concepts.
Write key points on index cards and move them around. How can you relate the concepts to each other?
Summarize a passage in 50 words. Try ten words.
Pretend to disagree with what you’re reading. Think of arguments for both sides.
Link your studies. How does one subject you’re learning relate to your other subjects?
Make it practical. How can what you’re learning relate real-life examples?