By Marjorie Ann Goode

Revamp Those Study Skills and Be Proactive

One of the most critical areas for transition is adapting to new curriculum by quickly adjusting one’s study habits. The key for success is that the reaction time is swift, not passive.

Students need to accept this transition, yearly, at each level change. First of all, the course requirements and rubric will not be exactly the same, and the student will limit potential success by failing to adjust to the new expectations.

Another transition expectation will be the emergence of self-advocacy. Other students need to learn how to reach out, immediately, to teachers for help and if not successful, they must assume the advocacy role of pursuing other resources for assistance. The necessity of quick intervention in order to rectify problems is critical. Too often, students assume they have plenty of time to “make things better.” However, improvement can only be optimized by an immediate reaction to the challenge, followed by an intervention plan that includes effective problem-solving techniques.

Families and mentors should work collaboratively to enhance a student’s advocacy development. Along with educational transition is the necessity for perseverance, disciplined work habits, a curiosity for learning, emotional maturity, and respect for personal integrity. Engage the support of school staff to help the student accomplish goals, since each school year will present a new agenda. Just think of it as, “tis the season for change.”