Studying

I have had several people ask me about how to study better for this class. I don't think that my advice is all that different from the advice you'd get from anyone or guides like those I posted below (add you own, if you find them helpful). But I guess there are a few things are might be specific to this class. So here are some general thoughts. Also see the advice under the Quizzes page.

Watch this TED talk. Seriously. Getting into the right mindset before an exam or quiz or class or whatever can make a HUGE difference. http://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are.html

My advice
This class is about __understanding__, __connecting__, and __applying__ //concepts//. This means:
 * memorizing terms and definitions will only get you so far
 * understanding the logical connections between cause and consequence is key
 * understanding when/where a concept applies and where it does not is also important

Many of the questions I ask are designed to see if you actually understand the logic, connections, and applications of these concepts. They should be easy when you do, but might be mystifying when you do not. They include:
 * applying the theory/concept to a situation that is largely analogous to what we've seen in the reading or lecture
 * drawing & interpreting graphs
 * asking you to make predictions
 * asking you about exceptions to the theory/concept

So how do you best study for the exams? I would strongly recommend you:
 * practice using the equations, drawing the graphs, etc. Seriously.
 * Draw, draw, draw!
 * Look through the graphs in the book and see whether you can put them into words. Google "Graph and [name of concept]" and see if you can interpret the graph.
 * Do the simple algebra to find the equilibria we've seen in class.
 * Put that math back into words.
 * thinking through examples where you apply the theory/concept/formula to a problem...what does it tell you?
 * test your understanding by thinking about when a theory/concept/formula does _not_ work (as well as when it does)
 * study in groups. Make it a regular thing.
 * Try to come up with questions you think I might ask and see how well everyone else does. Can you stump them?
 * Can you explain your answer in a way that everyone understands? (If not, odds are good that your TAs and I won't understand either.)
 * Try teaching the concepts to friends/strangers/parents.
 * Change your mental attitude: think about how cool Ecology is. Again, seriously. Even if it is fake enthusiasm, that attitude can help you see the bigger picture of what you're learning and make it less of a drag to study.

Other, general advice
These are all from a site called Chegg.com. I do not endorse Chegg or any particular site, nor would I say that following their advice will lead to success in this class. I somehow got on their mailing list, clicked some links, and found a few things I think might be useful to students. Do you own research. Add your own advice / links. -Jesse

Learn how to study efficiently in College http://blog.chegg.com/2012/09/20/infographic-learn-how-to-efficiently-study-in-college/

The How Not to Study Guide (in 12 Easy Steps) http://blog.chegg.com/2012/07/08/the-how-not-to-study-guide/

10 things your professor won't tell you about grading (I definitely dispute some of these statements, but we're not an essay-focused class.) http://blog.chegg.com/2012/05/05/10-things-your-professor-wont-tell-you-about-grading/