The importance of distinguishing activity from productivity when your child is studying
One key concern when your child is studying at home is the confusion between mere activity and genuine productivity. Just because your child appears busy, it doesn't necessarily mean they are actively learning and absorbing knowledge. In this article, we will explore the importance of distinguishing activity from productivity and offer practical tips for fostering effective home study.
Defining activity and productivity:
Activity refers to any form of engagement that your child may be involved in while studying at home. This could include getting their equipment out, trying to find study materials and generally doing things other than actually studying. On the other hand, productivity refers to the measure of real progress and understanding your child makes whilst studying. A productive study session results in increased knowledge retention, improved critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The problems associated with high activity levels, but a lack of productivity:
Time wastage: Engaging in busywork without actual learning outcomes can lead to a waste of precious study time. Your child may spend hours appearing occupied, yet achieve little or nothing in terms of academic progress.
Reduced motivation: Constantly engaging in unproductive activities might lead to frustration and reduced motivation, as your child may feel like they are putting in effort without seeing results.
Tips for encouraging productive home study:
Set clear goals: Work with your child to establish clear study objectives. Define what they should achieve during each study session and ensure these goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time bound (SMART).
Create a distraction-free environment: Minimise distractions during study time by providing a quiet and dedicated study space. Ensure that electronic devices and other disturbances are kept away during study hours.
Encourage active learning: Instead of passive activities like simply reading or listening to lectures, encourage your child to engage in active learning techniques. This includes summarising information in their own words, creating flashcards, or teaching the material to someone else.
Regular progress checks: Monitor your child's progress regularly to ensure they are on track with their goals. Review their completed work and discuss their understanding of the subject matter to identify areas that may need further attention.
Breaks and rewards: Schedule short breaks during study sessions to prevent burnout and maintain focus. Offer small rewards when your child achieves their study goals to keep them motivated.
Be a supportive guide: Be actively involved in your child's education journey. Offer guidance, help them with challenging concepts, and provide positive reinforcement for their efforts.
In conclusion, distinguishing between activity and productivity is crucial for your child's success in home study. By establishing clear goals, promoting active learning, and providing a conducive environment, parents can ensure that their child's time spent studying at home is both productive and rewarding. With consistent support and encouragement, your child will develop effective study habits and thrive academically even in the comfort of their own home.
