First-Year Seminars 110CG - College Cognition

Which study habits allow students to get the most out of a college curriculum? What works well, and what doesn't? For example, how important is a good night's sleep before an exam? How (in)efficient is cramming? This course seeks to examine, from a molecular to a social-cognition level, the neurobiological and psychological underpinnings of successful study habits (both within and outside the classroom), as well as to investigate other elements that may impinge on effective study. Through lectures, discussions of readings from both textbook sources and the primary research literature, and experiential exercises, we will consider (among other topics): mechanisms of memory consolidation and retention (and forgetting), the role of sleep and stimulants in learning and recall, stereotype threat and academic performance, the value of group work, and comparisons of strategies for effective study.

Course limited to new first-years & transfers/FPs entering as first-years.