Active Study Techniques

In 2025, we introduced study sessions that are designed for students to engage in independent active study. All the students have been given information about active study techniques during Term 1 in “How to study sessions”. During these sessions, teachers presented and modelled different active studying techniques such as mnemonics, Pomodoro, deep note taking etc. to enhance student engagement in active studying. 

The image inserted above gives some interesting examples of active/passive studying to understand the difference between them and will be useful for parents to discuss these strategies with their children to reiterate the importance of active studying.

An active study technique is about taking a more hands-on approach with learning, either by encouraging students to actively recall information recently learned, or pre-empt the content that they are about to learn. Whereas, passive study involves superficial engagement with information, with a focus on memorisation of facts and details, rather than in-depth understanding or application needed to successfully retain, recall and use knowledge at a later date.

The resources for active study skills are also added for students on the student resource website. 

Anu Garg

Acting Learning Specialist: Deep and Student Centred Learning

VCE and IB Chemistry Teacher