Monday, January 19, 2009

Academic Summer Camps Teach Creative Learning Techniques

By Lauren Tyson

Studying isn't about just cramming facts into memory banks. It can be difficult to absorb information and store it for future retrieval when memorizing a collection of dry facts that lack meaningful organization. Utilizing proper study techniques helps the brain process learned information by grouping it into formats that are usable, and more importantly, retrievable. This process can be enhanced by adding a fun and inventive twist to studying which will keep a student engaged.

Pairing intuitive learning techniques with a student's natural creativity is just one of the reasons why SuperCamp remains a leader in academic summer camps around the world. Students, ranging from grades 4 through 12, will leave camp armed with a repertoire of critical learning and life skills necessary for success in their academic career. Bridging the gap between course work and student will be remarkably easier when they are equipped with a wide range of study skills and advantageous techniques that cater specifically to their learning style.

Mind Mapping, a method developed by Tony Buzan in the 1960's, allows students to actively learn through the use of colorful pictures and word associations. It creatively personalizes information in a unique way that also engages the left and right side of the brain simultaneously. This technique can be used by anyone who needs to prepare for an exam, write a book report, plan an event, or tackle a challenging problem.

How does one use Mind Mapping? First, turn your page horizontally so that you have plenty of room to spread outwards. Your first addition to the page should be something that represents the main idea of the subject matter you are covering. Consider the life cycle of a plant as an example. Sketch a picture in the center of the page that accurately represents your topic; in this case, you could pair the words with a drawing of a plant. Draw tapering branches stemming from the main idea and write each clarifying points along the branches' length: the germination of a seed, where a plant gets its food, the process of photosynthesis, and how flowers are pollinated. Be sure to include a picture with all relevant pieces of information and use at least three different colors throughout your Mind Map.

Color is important in Mind Mapping because it stimulates the imaginative portion of the brain and holds attention. Pairing pictures with words helps the brain form associations that can be easily summoned when needed. Each Mind Map should be unique in appearance and include a variety of pictures and words that emphasize the focal points and supporting details of the subject matter at hand. The final product will resemble a branching tree surrounding a central idea, which will serve as a reminder that the bigger picture should always be kept in mind.

With a strong foundation formed at an early age, students can develop study skills that work best with their mode of learning. A student who is able to manipulate content in a mentally stimulating way will be much less apprehensive about learning new material, which may set a trend in years to come. James Ohnoki, a SuperCamp graduate and earnest believer in Mind Mapping, felt that Mind Mapping brought about a new level of understanding to his study habits and became a major turning point in his academic career. The visual elements helped him connect facts to a bigger picture, while the drawing and coloring aspects gave him license to be as creative as he wanted.

Students like James Ohnoki will be astonished at how effective the learning techniques they develop at SuperCamp will transform their study habits and turn them into interactive learners. It will bridge the gap between their coursework and comprehension, and start them down the road toward academic success. With learning techniques like Mind Mapping at their disposal, students will find the way to success is remarkably less difficult to traverse.

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