On the recommendation of a friend of mine I decided to download a Pomodoro app for my phone to help with my study focus.
The idea behind Pomodoro (which I believe means Tomato in Italian…) is that an optimum block of time to study in one go is 25 minutes, followed by a 5 minute break (described in a bit more detail here https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique). A Pomodoro app allows you to set the timer going and pootle off and do your study for 25 minutes; when this “study” block is over an alarm will sound and will suggest you start a 5 minute “break” (also timed) or to stop.
For me the most beneficial thing about this type of app is psychological – rather than overwhelming my brain by thinking “oh goodness, I have 2 whole hours of study to get done this morning” I’m now more likely to approach it with the attitude that I’ll sit down to study for 25 minutes, after which I’ll have a five minute break. Study. Break. Repeat (x4)
What I found out last year is that my brain also works better under pressure (I’ll post about this one following the first TMA of this module, I’m sure!). Knowing that I have a set time in order to do something seems to inspire me to think about what I want to achieve in each study section – so who knows, I might even use this technique when actually writing my TMAs too!
If you’re like me and the temptation to nip quickly onto social media is quite strong – ClearFocus: Pomodoro Timer (the app I use on my smartphone) allows me to turn off wi-fi/4G during the 25 minute “study” time, however if you do need your phone to access your module website or any online resources you can toggle this option off and on.
Have you come across any tips or tricks to help your focus and concentration?
Fay.
HI. Sounds like a good app. I use a similar thing on my PC called Timeleft at http://www.timeleft.info/ which gives you a timer, a stopwatch, a countdown clock and some others, with a variety of alarms, one of each on the free version. I use it to ensure I take adequate breaks.
ReplyDeleteIt'd be great, to switch 3G and wireless off, but the OU have started a move to online courses only. My distraction resistance is weak but I need internet connection to study these days.
ReplyDeleteBut nice blog.
I just need to be stronger!
Hi Karen, you can toggle the 3g option off and on in the app, I am in the same boat that I need 3g on in order to use the online study tools, and I agree this does then require some willpower!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Karen, you can toggle the 3g option off and on in the app, I am in the same boat that I need 3g on in order to use the online study tools, and I agree this does then require some willpower!!!
ReplyDelete