These Study Environment Factors Can Prevent Students From Learning
Studying for exams REQUIRES FOCUS AND DETERMINATION. Moreover, it requires a space that's conducive to concentration, which is why having a dedicated place for studying is a must for students to help them do their best in school. Having a quiet and CLUTTER-FREE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT can be beneficial, but apart from distracting noise levels and clutter, there are other factors that can hinder one's ability to absorb and retain information. Find out how these study environment factors can prevent students from learning and achieving their academic goals.
Having poor indoor air quality
Being regularly exposed to outdoor pollutants can be hazardous to one's health, but did you know that having poor indoor air quality in a study space can also affect a student's well-being and performance? One of the factors that CAN AFFECT INDOOR AIR QUALITY is the presence of black mould, and studies have shown that constant exposure to it may result in MYCOTOXICOSIS OR MOULD POISONING. Among the symptoms of this health condition are changes in mood, headaches and memory loss. These symptoms may not only negatively impact a student's ability to study, but they can affect their overall performance in school as well.
To ensure good indoor air quality, be on the lookout for leaks and mould growth in the study space, and remove all traces of mould with a non-toxic cleanser such as pure white vinegar. Use a ceiling or stand fan to keep the air circulating in the room, and once in a while, make sure to open the door and the windows to let in some fresh air. Placing live plants inside the study space can also help to freshen and clean the air.
Using the wrong colours in a study space
Most people think that having an austere space that's completely devoid of colour can improve focus. However, studies have shown that certain colours can help to promote concentration and boost memory. Bright hues such as yellow, orange and red are energising and create alertness, but using too many of these colours can be jarring or overstimulating. To use colours to your advantage, plan on painting the walls of your study space in a soft grey, and decorate with yellow, orange or red throw pillows, throws, table accessories, and perhaps some plants with brightly coloured blooms. To relieve stress while studying, display a few small green potted plants in your study space, and hang a painting or a picture of a seascape on the wall.
Playing music while revising
Some students prefer to listen to music while studying. However, a Cardiff Metropolitan University study has revealed that students who revised in quiet places PERFORMED BETTER IN EXAMS than their peers who studied while listening to music. Playing a little Billie Eilish, Lizzo, or Katy Perry while studying may lift your mood, but if you need to learn new material for a test, then it's best to save your Spotify listening sessions for another time and study in silence to get the best results.
Your study space should be a place that's conducive to learning and concentration. Try reducing or eliminating these factors from your study environment to boost focus and memory retention, and see how doing so can help you reach your academic goals.