Have you been keeping up with your studying this semester? Well, I sure hope so, considering finals will be here before you know it! But another important question we should really be asking is what type of platform are you using to study for these exams? Do we prefer digital learning, or physical paper learning? With exams approaching quickly, I asked a few Old Westbury students about their preferences.
QUESTION: Do you prefer digital studying or paper studying? And how does your preference impact your academic performance
Ashwin Antony
“I definitely prefer digital studying! I use ‘Quizlet’, and it really helps me a lot with my Social Studies assignments. I also use ‘YouTube’ for Math tutoring. I honestly think Math is the subject that benefits most from online learning, because there are so many different types of media to help you understand it better. But when it comes to subjects like Science or Social Studies, I could also see textbooks being a big help as well. Whenever I study digitally, I always try to keep my mind clear from other distractions, and one way I do that is by putting on study mode so I don’t receive any notifications. It definitely helps me stay focused. For me, looking at a textbook has always been boring, but using online resources like ‘Quizlet’ takes online learning and makes it like a fun game. It really helps me to remember more information, Which impacts my academics positively!”
Cody Werner
“When I do study, I probably prefer to use digital studying methods and formats. I’m kind of lazy when it comes to grabbing a physical textbook. Plus you don’t necessarily even have to grab one if you can find it online. You just have to use google to find what you need. But if your device somehow crashes, then you are out of luck. I think it also really depends on the class as well. Since you can do so much more with digital studying methods, I would say the pros outweigh the cons. So many would classify digital studying as a distraction in itself, but not for me personally. I just put on some music to help me tune out my surrounding area as I study. I get distracted easily, so the music helps me narrow my concentration to one task at a time.”
Ryan Gaetan
“Recently, I have definitely preferred digital learning over physical. It’s a lot more convenient to have easy access to information through the internet, rather than a textbook where I have limitations on what I can carry. Also for me, my usage of online studying resources really depends on how long I’m going to need it for. If I need some quick information because I left my textbook at home by mistake, digital studying becomes even more convenient. And despite people thinking that digital studying comes with a lot of distractions, I personally disagree. When I use digital platforms through my IPad or computer, I usually turn off my notifications, and put on some music to help me keep focused on my studying. Overall, digital learning has always impacted me more positively than physical learning does.”
Nasir Fanfan
“I would say I definitely used regular textbooks more than digital outlets for my studying. I’m more of a traditional note taker, so when I had to study for exams I was able to go back to my notes from class for help. It’s just easier for me that way personally. When I took my Buddhism class, all of our tests were done online at home, and I actually preferred that. While I appreciated the professor’s in-person class teaching methods, digital was definitely more helpful for me personally. I know if I was using my computer to study, I would be constantly checking my Steam, Spotify, or Instagram. While I’m not the best note taker, writing down information has always helped me the most. But I do see the benefits of both forms of studying!”
