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