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Academic Skills
Workshops

Summer 2008
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Dr. Diane Knight.

Last updated on May 16, 2008.
Copyright © 2007 Mason Counseling & Psychological Services

For more information contact:
CAPS, MSN 2A2, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, Virginia 22030-4444.
Call (703) 993-2380, fax (703) 993-2378,
or come by the office in Student Union I, Room 364

Developing good academic skills will bring greater academic success. These study skills workshops can help you improve your academic performance. To register for these workshops, call 703-993-2999, email to Learning Services, or come to SUB I, Room 354.

The Certificate in Academic Skills Program utilizes these workshops to help students develop their study skills and receive recognition for their effort. Participants complete an initial assessment and receive an individually tailored plan of workshops, audiotapes, videotapes, and readings designed to enhance academic performance. Call 703-993-2999 to get started.

Improving Concentration

The ability to concentrate, to focus one’s attention exclusively on the task at hand, is essential to learning. Both internal and external distractions can make concentration difficult. This workshop examines these distractions and strategies to enhance concentration. You learn to identify your distractions and develop strategies to eliminate them, practice relaxation techniques to improve focus, and explore other tactics to improve your concentration

May 28 Wed 6-8 p.m
June 30 Mon 1-3pm
July 28 Mon 1-3pm

Overview of Study Strategies

This workshop explores effective study methods and note-taking techniques. You'll examine how you learn best, explore strategies to capitalize on your learning style, and learn methods to transfer information from short-term to long-term memory.

June 2 Mon 1-3pm
July 17 Thurs 10am-12pm
Aug 13 Wed 1-3pm

Organization Skills

Is clutter getting in the way of your academic success? Do you have trouble keeping up with all your papers, texts, e-mails, and assignments for your classes? Come to this workshop to learn techniques to better manage your paper flow and arrange your desk, computer files, and living space in ways that will help you be more efficient and productive. We'll help you develop an individualized plan to meet your unique needs, style, and schedule. Get ready for your classes with a clean sweep!

June 16 Mon 1:30-3pm
July 10 Thurs 10:30am-12pm

Thesis Support

This program helps graduate students learn coping strategies and practical tips to get through the thesis-writing process from proposal to defense. Interested individuals may contact Diane Knight at 703-993-2380 to schedule a consultation session.

Motivation and Goal-Setting

What do you want to do with your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed or confused about your future? Are you unclear as to which path to take? This workshop examines the power of higher education and its role in your future. Learn why it is important to look at the BIG PICTURE when planning your course work and choosing your major. This workshop also allows you to explore your values and see how the choices you make now will lay the foundation for your future.

June 9 Mon 1:30-3pm
July 3 Thurs 10:30am-12pm

Exam Strategies

Be well prepared and test-wise for your next exam. This workshop teaches preparation and test-taking strategies.

June 23 Mon 1:30-3pm
July 7 Mon 1:30-3pm
Aug 7 Thurs 1:30-3pm

Managing Performance Anxiety

Does worrying about a test make it hard for you to study? Do you forget all you know just as the exam begins? Any time you are asked to perform, tension can interfere with you doing your best. This workshop examines the reasons for performance anxiety and explores strategies for cope with it.

June 11 Wed 4-5:30pm
July 14 Mon 1:30-3pm

Scheduling & Time Management

Do you spend too much or too little time studying? Learn the skills of successful time management and increase your ability to balance study with other activities.

June 4 Wed 6-7:30pm
July 24 Thurs 10:30am-12pm
Aug 6 Wed 1:30-3pm

Crash Course in Academic Skills

Get ready for the year by attending this academic skills workshop before classes begin. This workshop explores good study strategies, effective note-taking techniques, individual learning styles, and ways to be test wise and well-prepared for exams. In addition, you learn skills for successfully managing your time and avoiding procrastination.

Aug 18 Mon 9am-2pm

Academic Survival Workshop
for Midterms & Finals

Midterms and finals are a stressful time, especially if you’re already behind in your coursework! At this workshop, learn strategies for organizing outlines for your final papers, developing a study plan for your exams, preparing for your presentations, as well as learn how to better communicate effectively with instructors and classmates. In addition, you will explore ways of managing middle and end-of-semester stress and give and receive support from other students. It’s not too late!!

Check fall schedule

Overcoming Procrastination

Do you find yourself constantly putting off projects, assignments, or commitments? You may be caught in the "not now, later" trap. Overcome this difficulty by discovering what makes you procrastinate.

June 19 Thurs 10:30am-12pm
July 21 Mon 1:30-3pm
Aug 5 Tues 10:30am-12pm