Learn Like A DJ: Student Strategies for Optimum Learning

In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, students face a constant battle against distractions that can hinder their learning progress. However, there is a tool at their disposal: the ability to create personalised strategies for optimal learning and distraction avoidance. This is where ‘Learn Like a DJ’ can help students reflect on their own barriers to learning and the possible strategies they can use to combat them.

Student Learning Style Strategies

The first step in developing effective learning and focus strategies is for your students to understand their unique learning style. Are they a visual learner who benefits from charts and diagrams, an auditory learner who absorbs information through listening, or a kinesthetic learner who thrives on hands-on experiences? Knowing their learning styles can guide them in tailoring their study techniques to maximise their comprehension and retention.

Strategies for your students:

• Setting clear and achievable goals is a fundamental aspect of successful learning. Define both short-term and long-term objectives, breaking them down into manageable tasks. Having a roadmap in place not only keeps you motivated but also helps you stay on track when distractions arise.

• Effective time management is crucial for successful learning. Use tools like calendars, planners, or digital apps to schedule study sessions, assignments, and breaks. By allocating specific time slots to your tasks, you'll be less likely to procrastinate or get sidetracked.

• Not all tasks are created equal. Learn to prioritise your assignments and study materials. Focus on completing high-priority tasks first, and then tackle less urgent ones. This way, you'll maintain a sense of accomplishment and reduce the likelihood of feeling overwhelmed.

• While technology can be a major source of distraction, it can also be a valuable learning tool when used mindfully. Consider using productivity apps or website blockers to limit access to distracting websites and apps during study sessions.

• One of the most effective strategies for minimising distractions is to take advantage of any dedicated study areas created by the classroom teacher. These are often a quiet, well-lit space free from distraction or visual stimuli.

• Overloading your brain with information can lead to burnout and decreased focus. Schedule regular breaks during your study sessions to recharge. Use this time to practise mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help you stay present and reduce stress.

• Don't hesitate to seek support from peers, instructors, or mentors. Share your learning and distraction-avoidance strategies with them, and ask for their input or guidance. Sometimes, an external perspective can provide valuable insights.

• Finally, remember that learning and distraction avoidance strategies are not set in stone. As you progress in your academic journey, you may need to adapt and refine your techniques to align with new challenges and goals. Stay flexible and open to change.

Learn Like A DJ

Step 1 - The DJ

Use a clip of a DJ in action so that the students can reflect of all the things that a DJ needs to focus on at the same time.

Now make the connection to their learning and all the things that they need to balance during their own learning.

Step 2 - The Barriers to Learning

Help your students brainstorm some of the barriers to learning as a group.

Then ask them to reflect on their own barriers to learning.

They should fill these in on the 'Learn Like a DJ' organiser.

Your students should fill in any barriers to learning under the following headings:

• Positive Mindset - Are you negative before you even before you start something?

• Boundaries - Do you break the social rules of the classroom? Such as throwing things, disturbing others, going to online games that you are not permitted?

• Seating - When given the choice to you sit and work with people who will aid your learning or with others that hinder it through distractions?

• Timing - Do you prioritise you work appropriately, or leave the less engaging things until the last minute and then struggle to complete them?

• Focus - How focussed are you on what you want to be doing?

• Distractions - What distractions are there around you? What distractions to you create for yourself and/or others?

• Equipment - Do you have your materials, such as pen, iPad, books etc ready or do you need to be looking for they during an activity or piece of work?

Step 3 - Strategies for Learning

Once you have identified a number of barriers to your learning, the next step is to rank them. Take your time to do this and feel free to make changes. Remember that these are your barriers to learning and no one else's.

Once you are satisfied with your ranking list, you should take the top three. These are the three most obstructive to your learning. They should go on the labels in the organiser below.

The next step is to come up with strategies to combat the three barriers to learning. These could be done when conferencing with a teacher or individually, depending on the age of the students.

This is an example of a student organiser with strategies. Notice that the student doesn't name anyone as a distraction on their paper.

This is then kept in a plastic sleeve on the students desk and referred to at the start of each lesson.

ARE YOU READY TO DJ?