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College Planning Made Simple
1. Know Yourself
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How do you learn best?
Are you an independent learner or do you need direction?
Example:
When your history teacher assigns a paper, do you prefer a general topic that lets you explore and go in any direction you want? OR, do you prefer specific instructions such as "the Introduction must be at least a page long in which you state your thesis, followed by three pages of developing your argument, three pages of defending your thesis, and a one page conclusion"?
Are you inquisitive or accepting?
Example:
If a teacher makes a statement in class, or describes a mathematical formula or proof, do you write it down and move on, or do you prefer to think about it and question the teacher if it doesn't make sense to you?
Do you prefer to work and learn in teams or by yourself, memorizing notes?
Example:
Do you find working with a lab partner, where you can learn from each other, is more productive than studying and memorizing lab notes?
Are you an active or passive learner?
Example:
Do you learn more by being engaged in the process, where you have to think and are often "put on the spot" by teachers? OR, do you prefer the teacher to simply tell you what you must know to do well on the exam?
Do you prefer a structured or an unstructured learning environment?
Example:
Do you need the teacher to tell you exactly what to do and when, in order to pace yourself and learn? OR, do you learn best when the teacher gives you a broad overview of what the class objectives are and leaves it to you to figure out how to get there, asking for direction only when you need to?