Why understanding how you learn is the key to A level success
Your study technique is integral to your A level success.
Every student has a unique learning style, and by identifying and harnessing this knowledge, you can enhance your study techniques, improve retention, and ultimately achieve A level success. In this blog, we will explore why understanding how you learn is the key to succeeding when redoing A levels.
Factors to Consider (for redoing a levels):
1. Information Retention when redoing a levels
Understanding how you learn best can significantly impact your information retention. By identifying your learning style, you can tailor your study strategies to match your strengths. For example, visual learners may find it helpful to create mind maps, flashcards, or visual summaries to organize and recall information. Auditory learners can benefit from recording and listening to lectures or discussing concepts with peers. Kinaesthetic learners (sensory memory, in terms of touch) may find that engaging in hands-on activities, such as experiments or practical applications, helps solidify their understanding. When you align your study methods with your learning style, you enhance your ability to retain information and recall it effectively during exams.
2. Study strategies
The process of redoing A levels provides an opportunity to refine and develop effective study strategies that align with your learning style. Experiment with different techniques and approaches to find what works best for you. For example, if you are a visual learner, try creating colourful and visually appealing study materials. If you are an auditory learner, consider recording yourself explaining key concepts and then listen to the recordings during review sessions. If you are a kinaesthetic learner, incorporate physical activities into your study routine, such as acting out scenarios or using manipulatives. By honing your study strategies based on your learning style, you can optimize your study sessions and make the most of your redoing A levels experience.
3. Confidence, Focus & Engagement
When redoing A levels, maintaining focus and engagement can be challenging. However, understanding how you learn can help you overcome these obstacles. By leveraging your learning style, you can engage in study methods that resonate with you, making the learning process more enjoyable and meaningful. This, in turn, enhances your focus and motivation. When you are actively engaged in the material, studying becomes less of a chore and more of a stimulating experience. This self-awareness allows you to approach your studies with confidence, knowing that you have effective strategies in place. As you see the positive results of aligning your learning style with your study methods, your confidence in your abilities grows, and you develop a sense of self-efficacy, which is crucial for A level success.
4. The Tutorial Method: The ultimate learning style
Although some students are able to plan their revision and learning without the need for external help, we have found that students tend to receive better results with the help of guiding tutors. 92% of all A level retakes improve by at least two grades at Greene’s.
The Oxford Tutorial System, used at Greene’s and also at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, is defined by paired or shared tuition, taught in the Socratic method, with an emphasis on independent study. It allows us to work with you as an individual and support you in cultivating your confidence, critical thinking, ability to work with others, effective oral and written communication and independent learning skills. These skills will prepare you for the transition from A levels to university life.
A tutorial session itself can take the shape of a debate on aspects of literature, collaborative microscopy work, an analysis of a mathematical problem, a discussion of philosophical thought—and many other forms. One of the core benefits of the tutorial method is that tutorials can be individualised to each student and are shaped by the lively exchange of ideas between a unique pairing of tutor and tutee. Assuming students come well-prepared, these sessions encourage students to discover—literally to un-cover—truths that are waiting to be revealed by their own unique intellect. There is no telling what the course or outcome of the discussion will be. However, an improvement is your grades, confidence, and academic independence is highly likely.
Conclusion
Redoing A levels provides an opportunity for growth and improvement, and understanding how you learn is the key to unlocking your full potential. By tailoring study techniques to your learning style, maximizing information retention, enhancing focus and engagement, developing effective study strategies, and boosting confidence and self-efficacy, you can pave the way for A level success.
About Greene’s
Greene’s College Oxford is an independent sixth form college with campuses located in the heart of Oxford, U.K. and in Estoril, Portugal. Our educational philosophy is based on one simple assumption: if students’ education is tailored to suit their unique qualities and needs, they are more likely to be successful. Study at Greene’s College Oxford blends small group or individual tutorials, dynamic feedback on learning, and one-to-one weekly Personal Tutoring sessions to ensure all students have personalised guidance.
