Blog #4- Chapter 5
Rigorous Researcher
"Cramming": The procrastinator's best friend! I can't even tell you how many times I have crammed for an exam while in High School and at Naz. In Chapter 5 of, Why don't students like school? the author states that " If you pack lots of studying into a short period, you'll do okay on an immediate test, but you will forget the material quickly" (pp. 119). I decided to research the topic of "cramming" to see how other professionals in the field felt about the subject.
While researching the topic, I can't even begin to tell you how many sites I found with the same material: How to cram for your exam effectively. They gave the reader tips on how to cram for an exam, teaching the procrastinator that "cramming" is great and useful! I then found and article exploring the cram session.
The article poses many questions to the theme of cramming. I focused mainly on the idea: How Effective Is Cramming in the Long Run? John Goldrich, a mental health practitioner of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, states, "cramming is the result of procrastination which in turn stems from poor time management skills and often leads to stress." Stress can cause our body and mind to react in negative ways that are poor for our health and wellbeing. Just as Willingham says in Chapter 5, the article proves that cramming only assists the short term memory for a very brief period of time.
Exploring Cramming
-Alex
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ReplyDeleteThis was a big topic during my french class in high school. I never took the time to study for my quizzes beforehand. Usually I would study the day of the quiz/test and then the next week when we had to use previous knowledge I always struggled. However, when I actually took the time to study for my french quizzes, I felt accomplished because I was able to participate in activities we did after the quizzes or tests.
ReplyDeleteIn the article you posted it talked about how wide spread is the use of cramming. From the past week I have been subbing, I have heard multiple students say they just studied for the test the night before and that it is a regular occurrence.
-Melissa Lochner
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ReplyDeleteI really agree with you Melissa. When I was in high school I used to "cram" the day or two before a big test. This resulted in being able to pass then test but then I had to study harder for the next test because I did not remember what we had been tested on. I really enjoyed the article as well. I see cramming in the students I teach every day.
ReplyDeleteStacey LaFountain
I think everyone crams at some point....especially high school. I will actually admit that I don't think I know how to study for a test other than to cram. For some reason I just need the pressure to actually sit down and do something kind of like this blog I generally never get it done a day before it is due.
ReplyDeleteNatalie