Learning any academic discipline is challenging. Whether it is humanitarian or hard science, each field has obstacles. Students rarely stick to a single field. They take different classes and lessons to create a well-rounded specialty.
Learning biology alongside a second language is a single example from a wide diversity of possible combinations of specializations. Yet, this mix can serve as a perfect illustration of combining studying techniques for different academic fields.
This article provides an overview of how to develop a solid learning strategy for biology and a second language and how to make the most out of such a strategy.
Evaluate Your Knowledge and Set Clear Goals
Before deepening your knowledge, you should evaluate how much knowledge you have in the first place. Ongoing exams and tests can be a solid start. Yet, this information may not be complete. Seek active feedback from your peers and professors. Your academic surroundings can help you by giving you the right direction and emphasizing your strengths and weaknesses.
Seeking professional help outside of your university is also a valid strategy. Looking for a skilled academic assistance service is an excellent start. You can read SaveMyGrade reviews to understand what you should look for and browse the net for the right expert. Be open to the feedback. It is a prime opportunity to make your studying more focused. When you collect the feedback, it is time to set the goals.
Your goal does not have to be grand. Learning a new grammar rule or completing a scientific journal issue can be enough. The point is that you should have a point to which you can move.
The goal-setting process is similar for both biology and second language:
- Determine the area of improvement.
- Set a clear, short goal that will help you achieve it.
- Evaluate short-term and long-term aims.
- Establish a time frame.
Tips and Techniques for Learning Biology
Biology is a broad term that can include many subfields, such as:
- Microbiology;
- Biochemistry;
- Ecology;
- Pharmacology;
And many other subfields and their intersection. Each of them requires an individual approach. In terms of blending it with the humanitarian field, it all comes to a balanced time allocation between the subjects.
When tackling your biology field, answer the following questions:
- How much time will it take to complete the set goal?
- What of its time will be dedicated to experiments and theory learning?
- What time of the week can you dedicate to doing both of these segments?
A biology field that requires practical experiments and active research will surely demand more time for the said research. Make each opportunity to collect the hard data and then proceed to time slots when you can process it or learn something new to achieve your goal.
You can struggle with balancing the schedule at first. In that case, help with coursework writing can relieve you from part of the tasks and help you focus on achieving your long-term academic goals.
When the time slots are decided, consistently dedicate yourself to these studies. Once you’re comfortable with your routine, you can integrate second language improvement.
Add Second Language Improvement
While not necessary for studying biology, a second language can surely expand it. With a second language under your belt, whether German, Spanish or even English, you can learn from different sources and demonstrate the fruits of your research to a broader audience.
Similar to studying biology, find time to work on your language goals. When you have time to study, mix the facets of language. Divide studying into segments:
- Reading;
- Writing;
- Listening;
This approach will help you apply the knowledge acquired in complex situations and practice regularly. Communication with native speakers online or studying biology materials in that language can also help you expand your professional-related vocabulary.
Make the Schedule Work
The schedule and dedicated time slots are an excellent start. But how to make them work?
First, alternate the study sessions between language and biology. Such rotation will keep you invested and prevent burnout. Besides, the retention of information will be more efficient that way, too.
Second, apply different studying techniques to keep the information to stick with you. Take practice quizzes and write flashcards to memorize and repeat important terminology. Mobile applications can help you with that. Calendar and note apps can help you track all the essential concepts. Many language-focused applications can help you track your progress and adjust your goals.
Thirdly, during the learning session, try to maintain maximum focus. The Pomodoro technique, intervals of active study with break intervals, is a universal technique for learning any subject. Spaced repetition will help you memorize information better for both fields.
All these tips take practice and time. Try different approaches and use tips that work specifically for you.
Remain Flexible
Plans and strategies have to coexist with everyday life. Even the strongest of studying plans may fail at some point. One day, you may not be motivated to learn anything, which is normal. Adaptability and flexibility are vital components of a good learning plans.
Do not forget to take breaks. Rest is a critical part of learning, too. When you’re resting, the information you acquire will be absorbed much better. You can forget something from the studied material, which can also happen. That is why you have spaced repetition of the topics you already covered.
Evaluate your progress. Sometimes, we set big and ambitious goals from the start. We can feel frustrated and lack motivation when we do not reach them. In this case, it is okay to readjust your goals and set a smaller scope. Besides, asking for professional help can bring your plans closer to fruition.
Final Words
Studying two scientific fields is challenging but also rewarding. Accurate time distribution and adequate rotation between the subjects will help you study them successfully. Professional help and regular rest are also vital for beneficial studying.
