Learning tips for vocational school

A distinction is made between different learning types:

• auditory: learns by listening, e.g. reading aloud, audio files, podcasts, rhymes
• Visual: learns visually, e.g. through mind maps, diagrams, videos, coloured text markings
• haptic: learns through activity, e.g. touching information, creating links while walking, sticky notes in the room
• communicative: learns together with others, e.g. learning groups (Fig. 1), queries, discussions, learning apps with chat

Most of us are mixed types. It is therefore best to combine different learning methods. More variety also makes it more fun.

Tip:
You can also use a vocabulary book or flashcards to memorise medical terms in the old-fashioned way.

A tidy workplace with good lighting makes it easier for you to study. Make sure you can work undisturbed (switch off distracting media). Change your sitting position regularly, move around in between and remember to ventilate the room to get fresh air. Healthy snacks such as fruit/nuts and drinks such as water/tea help to keep your brain focussed.

Set a specific start and end time for your learning unit. Take regular breaks. You can use the "Pomodoro technique" to increase your productivity by dividing concentrated work into phases:

• 25 minutes of work
• 5 minute break
• Work for 25 minutes
• 5 minute break
• Work for 25 minutes
• 5 minute break
• 25 minutes work
• 5 minute break
• Take a longer break of 15 minutes after 4 sessions

What is your goal? To pass the next assignment with a good grade? To pass the intermediate exam? To achieve your dream job as a TFA with the final exam? Formulate your goal positively, concretely and preferably in writing.

What is your balance to mental, sedentary work? Walking, jogging, fitness, horse riding? Exercise in nature clears your brain and helps you process the information you have learnt.

^{What is procrastination? The term comes from the Latin word "procrastinare", which means "to put off". Procrastination is when you suddenly prefer doing housework to studying for school. This puts you under additional pressure because the tasks at hand are only delayed by the completion of other activities.}

Fig. 1 | Adspection of the oral mucosa (left). Illustration for checking the capillary refill time in horses (right).