Using technology to enhance your learning and study routine

In the technology-driven world, having strong study habits is more important than ever. Even though technology offers you countless tools and resources, without good study practices, you can get overwhelmed or distracted. Effective study habits will help you stay focused, organised, and motivated. With the right approach, you can make the best use of digital tools and turn potential distractions into powerful learning aids. Developing these habits now will not only boost your academic performance but also prepare you for lifelong learning. 

• Boosts academic performance: Effective study habits will help you understand and retain information better, which will lead to improved grades.   
• Manages time efficiently: With so many digital distractions, good habits will help you stay focused and maximise your study time.   
• Reduces stress: Being organised and prepared will allow you to reduce last-minute cramming and anxiety. 
• Build lifelong skills: Time management, critical thinking, and self-discipline skills will benefit you beyond  the classroom. 

The role and impact of emerging technologies in education 

The rise of digital technologies has revolutionised education. With the internet and digital tools, you can now access a wealth of information anywhere in the world. You can use the emerging tools to turn traditional study methods into something more interactive and engaging. You can also collaborate with other students and teachers and get real-time feedback. By embracing these tools, you can make your learning journey more effective and enjoyable. 

Understand your learning style 

Every student learns in their own unique way. By understanding your learning style, you can reach your full potential. Some people grasp concepts better through reading and writing. Others excel with auditory or visual information. Technology offers tools for all these styles, whether you learn better with visual aids such as videos, or auditory resources such as podcasts, or interactive, hands-on applications. Recognising your learning style will help you choose the right technological aids. It will enhance your study sessions and make learning more effective and enjoyable. 

10 tips for using technology to improve your learning experience 

Technology offers endless opportunities to make learning more interactive, efficient and personalised to meet your needs. From organising notes to managing your schedule, the right tools can help you transform the way you study. Whether you are preparing for exams, working on projects, or just trying to stay on top of your coursework, there are digital solutions to help you every step of the way. Here are some practical tips for harnessing technology for deeper learning and enhancing your learning experience. 

1. Organising your notes with digital note-taking apps 

Gone are the days of scribbling notes on paper. Apps such as Goodnotes, OneNote, Evernote, and Notion can help you organise your notes digitally. You can add images, links, and even voice memos. It will also make it easier for you to access, review, and locate information during the exams. 

2. Planning your schedule with digital calendars 

Staying organised is key to a productive study routine. Digital calendars such as Google Calendar can help you plan your study schedule. You can set reminders for deadlines, break study sessions into manageable chunks, and even schedule breaks to keep your mind fresh. 

3. Designing projects with presentation software tools 

You can use tools such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Keynote, Google Slides, and Canva to make creative presentations. There are several templates and design options for you to make your projects look professional. For group projects, you can use tools such as Trello and Slack to help manage tasks and communication. 

4. Accessing study material through digital libraries online 

You can sign up for digital libraries. They will give you access to a vast collection of books, journals, and research papers. Websites such as Google Scholar and Journal Storage (JSTOR) are great if you are looking for academic materials to support your findings and cite your papers. It will help you save time and make your research even more efficient. 

5. Enhancing your learning using AI study tools 

You can use AI tools to take online quizzes and practice tests to help you evaluate your understanding of a subject. You can use online quiz platforms or create custom quizzes on free AI websites for more personalised feedback. These tools will allow you to reinforce learning and identify areas where you need improvement. 

6. Simplifying study with digital textbooks and e-readers 

Carrying heavy textbooks is a thing of the past. Today, e-books and e-readers such as Kindle and tablets can make studying more convenient. You can not only highlight text and make notes but also search for specific information in a 100-page pdf. This is a great way for you to study and review materials on the go. 

7. Managing files efficiently using cloud storage tools 

As a higher education student in the UK juggling multiple subjects, keeping your study materials organised is crucial. With cloud storage services such as Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox, you can store, access, sync, and share files across all your devices. It will help you make sure that your notes and assignments are always safe and accessible, no matter where you are. 

8. Learning on the go with podcasts and audiobooks 

If you have multiple commitments and are always on the go, listening to educational podcasts and audiobooks can be a great way for you to learn. Whether you are commuting or doing chores, you can absorb new information without sitting down to study. This is especially useful for learners who are juggling their home and work. 

9. Staying focused with distraction-blocking tools 

With so many digital distractions, it can be difficult to stay focused. You can use your mobile phone's focus features to minimise interruptions. You can also block distracting websites and apps to create an optimal study environment. This mindfulness-based stress reduction will help you leverage technology for learning, maintain concentration and improve productivity. 

10. Expanding knowledge through digital technology courses 

If you are curious about digital tools and want to deepen your understanding of technology, consider GBS UK's specialised course, HND in Digital Technologies for England (Cyber Security). It is a comprehensive programme and will equip you with practical skills relevant to the dynamic digital landscape. Who knows, it might even lead to a successful career in technology. 

By embracing technology, you can transform your study routine into an efficient, engaging and personalised experience. Therefore, explore these digital tools, find out what works best for you, and watch your learning soar.