From acing exams to mastering the art of critical thinking, academic success in students is the ultimate passport to a brighter future. However, it is not determined by intellect alone but rather shaped by a combination of effective study habits and self-management skills. So much of life can get in the way of academic success, but with the right tools and mindset, your students can learn how to confidently navigate the academic world and emerge as empowered, capable learners.
Time Management
We all know the importance of time management and how this skill carries through the rest of your life. Whether it’s work, home, or community related, time management is a lasting and vital skill. Getting in the habit of managing one’s time well is crucial in succeeding in school. Everyone has different strategies to manage their time, but using tools like planners and calendars are helpful when time blocking and scheduling obligations. Students should learn how to prioritize wisely, weighing between activities and projects that take utmost importance, and plan accordingly.
Goal Setting
Here’s another useful lifelong skill: goal setting! Making achievable goals to stay motivated is important in getting things done. A large goal like “get straight A’s” is daunting and can easily feel difficult and exhausting. In setting goals like that for students, it’s important to remember to set smaller, achievable tasks to help achieve the bigger goal. Success is a marathon, not a sprint. Remind your students to complete their tasks and take it day-by-day – and watch them make progress!
Taking Breaks
Studies show that cramming and studying for hours on end does not necessarily promote memory and information retention. Rather, burnout is more likely to happen. Taking breaks in achieving any feat is essential! Short breaks during study sessions become vital in studying. You can teach students how to take ‘Brain Breaks’ with help from the Mindfulness course on Hiveclass!
Physical Health
We know by now that an active brain is intrinsically tied to a healthy body. Aim to incorporate exercise breaks! Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, good for improving focus, creativity, and overall mental health. Encourage students to engage in physical exercise like jumping jacks or playing catch outside when taking breaks from studying.
Mental Health
The most difficult part of finding success in education is STRESS. Juggling various classes and examinations while also managing all the other aspects of life can be really stressful. It becomes impossible to study when everything starts to stack up. Here’s where mindfulness techniques can help students! Focusing on breathing and relaxing the mind can help them stay present. If your students are facing mental health challenges, help them seek professional support and counseling services. Remember – we can all do hard things.
Active Learning
Finally, active learning! This is probably the best way for young minds to learn new information and succeed in an academic environment. Engaging in active learning methods like summarizing material, teaching it to others, and participating in group discussions is the best way to deepen their understanding of topics. It’s studying without it feeling like studying. Reinforcing everything they’ve learned thus far is helpful in having confidence going into their next big test and having pride in how much they’ve accomplished.
The path to academic success is a multifaceted journey that requires dedication, discipline, and a commitment to self-improvement. It’s the adoption of healthy habits and a growth-oriented mindset that truly set the stage for accomplishment in the world of academia, in life!
Just like in education, commitment to physical activity is something that requires things like goal setting, time management, and taking breaks. Whether a student is participating in organized sports or taking the time to be physically active in their free time, this is an activity that brings challenges, incredible benefits for physical and mental wellness, as well as important life skills like confidence, leadership, and teamwork. Encouraging youth to participate in physical activity is one additional way educators can support them in their academic and personal life. Hiveclass is a wonderful tool that schools can utilize to support physical education, sport exploration, social emotional learning, and more.
So let’s all collectively help students embrace challenges, harness their own potential, and embark on this educational journey with the confidence that their efforts will be worth it.