Independent Study
For each conceptual goal develop at least
one page of notes, for each capability come
up with at least three examples. Some units
will have suggested background units listed
as Pre: .
The topics covered here are:
- The basics of independent study
- How to learn science.
- How to learn mathematics.
Unit 1: Introduction to Studying Mathematics
and Science
Requirements:
Unit 1: Introduction to Mathematics and Science.
Conceptual Goals:
- Discovering your learning style.
- Planning a learning project.
- Acquiring learning materials.
- Critical thinking.
- Using learning materials effectively.
- Self-assessment.
Capabilities:
- Plan a learning project.
- Acquire the materials you need.
- Apply the principles of critical thinking
to your project.
- Develop self-assessment goals.
Useful Exercise
- Start a notebook for studying. I recommend
a bound sketchbook or journal, rather than
a spiral-bound notebook. I also recommend
that you take initial notes from reading,
lectures, doing problems, meetings, and so
on, on note paper or pads and then transfer
the notes to your notebook. Your notebook
is a permament record of your studies and
you should be able to relearn the material
after you have forgotten it.
Useful Sources of Study
- George E. Hrabovsky, (2006), Self-Instruction and Teaching: Science Education
for the New Millenium. This is available for purchase from http://stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=606172.
- Mayank N Vahia, How to study science. This is a free download for the website:
http://www.tifr.res.in/~vahia/how.pdf
- S. Keshav, (2007), How to Read a Paper, ACM SIGCOMM Computer Communication Review,
Volume 37, Number 3, July 2007. This is a
free download for the website: http://ccr.sigcomm.org/online/files/p83-keshavA.pdf
- Alet Roux, (2003), How to Read Mathematics. This is a free download from the website:
www.math.ucdavis.edu/~tlewis/rfg/jclub/read_math.pdf
- Cal Newport, (2009), The Notebook Method: How Pen and Paper Can
Transform You Into a Star Student. This is a free download from the website:
http://calnewport.com/blog/2009/03/20/the-notebook-method-how-pen-and-paper-can-transform-you-into-an-star-student/
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