Zeeshan Haider Introduction
Feeling overwhelmed by approaching due dates? The anxiety of impending assignments and tests is a familiar challenge. The key to success lies in effective planning and personalized strategies tailored to your needs. This article provide guidance to navigate exam and paper deadlines for autistic students:
Calendar Mastery
Start by creating a comprehensive calendar for the semester, incorporating due dates, test schedules, and any additional commitments. Utilize tips from resources like “Autism and Understanding ‘Hidden Curriculum'” and “Patrick Pontificates” to optimize your calendar for success.
Decoding Workload
Distinguish between assignments requiring a week’s dedication and those manageable in a day. Clues lie in class discussions, syllabus weightage, and core course indicators. Networking with classmates is invaluable for navigating these nuances.
My advice is to avoid delaying tasks for tomorrow when they can be completed today. Procrastination is often regarded as the thief of time.
Charles Dickens
Time Management in College
Unlike high school, college professors rarely delve into time-management skills. Consider seeking a tutor who excelled in the course or demonstrated effective time management. Their insights will prove invaluable in navigating academic challenges.
Study Habits
Establish a study routine based on the general guideline of two to three hours of study for every hour of class. Customize this to your pace, allowing for flexibility and increased preparation before significant tests or challenging topics. Incorporate dedicated study time into your calendar to avoid last-minute cramming.
Effective Study Techniques
Tailor your study methods to your preferences—flashcards, note rewriting, or practicing problem sets. Consistent, spaced learning over time is proven to enhance understanding. Experiment with different techniques to identify what works best for you.
Collaborative Learning
Consider where and with whom you study. Choose a distraction-free, motivating environment. Finding a compatible study partner can enhance your learning experience, providing a valuable resource for discussion and questions.
Mastering Paper Writing
Stay ahead by brainstorming paper topics as soon as the assignment is announced. Plan your schedule backward, ensuring ample time for drafting, editing, and finalizing. Adjust timelines based on assignment weightage to prioritize effectively.
Leverage Resources
Tap into the wealth of resources available on campus, particularly librarians skilled in time management and efficient research techniques. Consult course syllabi and assignment rubrics for essential information to avoid overlooking critical elements.
Communication with Professors
Never hesitate to reach out to professors or TAs with questions or concerns. They are there to support your success and can provide valuable guidance on study strategies and relevant course material.
By implementing these strategies, you can confidently tackle exams and paper deadlines, ensuring a more organized and successful academic journey.
Source
- Grandin, T. (2013). Autism and Understanding ‘Hidden Curriculum.’ Shawnee Mission, KS: Autism Asperger Publishing Company.
- Lang, J. M. (2016). Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
- Gurung, R. A. R., Weidert, J., & Jeske, A. (2010). Getting the Most out of College: A Professor’s Guide to Choosing a College and Maximizing the College Experience. Sterling, VA: Stylus Publishing.
- Facione, P. A., & Facione, N. C. (2013). Critical Thinking and Clinical Reasoning in the Health Sciences: A Teaching Anthology. Millbrae, CA: California Academic Press.
- Johnson, D. W., Johnson, R. T., & Smith, K. A. (2014). Active Learning: Cooperation in the College Classroom. Edina, MN: Interaction Book Company.
