Organizational Management for Students with Disabilities (Or Everyone, Really!):
General "Gotta-Have" Study Habits:
1) Schedule your study time. Don't leave it up to "I have plenty of time this afternoon." Set up an exact time to start, even if you don't know when you?ll finish. Even if you have trouble getting to task right away, still sit down and start.
2) When you take a break, time that as well. If you have trouble getting back to work, try setting an egg timer. When the bell goes off, it's time to study again.
3) Plan relaxation time as well. If you are going to be out on Saturday night, great! Just be sure that you get some work done before that so you can really relax.
4) Get other people in your "corner". It's hard to be dedicated to studying when someone else is trying to encourage you not to. Language that may work: "I need to study for the next 2 hours, what about you? When I get done, let's go do ______ as a reward."
If you have a significant other, have them help plan your study, work and personal schedule. They will feel you are truly making time for them.
Things That are Unique to Each Student:
1) Know how you study - where/how do you LEARN information the best?
- Private or public place?
- Public place (like the library) or housing area?
- With headphones or without?
- If you listen to music on your headphones, make sure it has NO words.
- A space that is clean, or where you have everything at your fingertips?
2) Have a schedule and assignment list and a place to put it all down!
- The biggest problem students have is often trying to keep too much information in their heads. You need to PUT IT DOWN!
- Find a system that works for you. Paper, computer, palm-pilot, side-kick?whatever works. This planner should be something you use, update at least every other day and reminds you of assignments.
- Do you need to see or hear information?
o If you need to hear information reminders, call yourself and leave a message on your voicemail.
o If you need to see information reminders, put a big whiteboard in your house or on your fridge. Check assignments off when done.
Disability Services can help students plan schedules for the semester and outline homework assignments. However, the idea is instructional; eventually students will need to take over these skills for themselves. Call 651 641 8272 for assistance if you need it!
