Studying ScienceStudying Sciencein Collegein College
““Which one of these is not like the Which one of these is not like the other?”other?”
Overview• What is Science?• Why is it Different
than Other Subjects?
• Why Students Say Science is Hard
• Ways to Study Science Effectively
• Science as a General Education Component
What is Science?• Physical Sciences
– Astronomy– Biology– Chemistry– Physics
• Social Sciences– Anthropology– Psychology– Sociology
What is Science continued
• Science is a process– You must think HOW, WHY, By WHAT
means or reactions.– Science examines the physical world
using our five senses. – It is quantitative and qualitative
Why is Science Different?
• Science is much more intense. • You will be expected to read, write,
learn similarities and differences, and mathematical formulas.
• Incorporation of labs-time intensive
E=mc2
Why Students Think Science is Hard
• “There is too much information”• “Science is multi-disciplined”• “I can’t do the Math”• “This isn’t something I know
anything about”• “I don’t have enough time to
learn it all”• “It’s too complex! How do I
keep it straight?”
Ways to study science effectively
• Notecards– Terms– You are learning a
LANGUAGE
Ways to study science effectively
• Flow Charts and Diagrams
Ways to study science effectively
• Utilize time management skills– Plan out your study time– Take advantage of your
breaks– Have a study plan
Ways to study science effectively
• Backwards Planning– Studying for an exam starts the first
day of class– Start with your test date and work
backwards– Plan time to REVIEW your MATERIAL
Ways to study science effectively
• Compare and Contrast– What is the SAME and what is
DIFFERENT– ID the concepts, terms, formulas that
you often confuse
Ways to study science effectively
• What do you already know and how does this fit with that?– RELATING to the MATERIAL is the
MOST IMPORTANT part of STUDYING– Example: My chemistry tutor
• Fluorine is popular and accepting
Ways to study science effectively
Which one of these is Which one of these is not like the other?not like the other?
I’m a Music Major-Why do I need Science?
Music = sound energy = acoustics = Science
General Education• Science is a key component of the
General Education Curriculum• Science teaches YOU how to
observe and investigate the world, how to be a better student, as well as making you well-rounded individuals.
What Did You Learn• Science is a process of Learning• It explores the world around us• It can make you a better student and
will help you in all aspects of life