GEOG 4463

Geography of Africa

Academic Success Strategies

There are five major strategies that can help to maximimze your academic success in GEOG 4463: Geography of Africa.  None of them are magic pills.  They all require time and hard work on your part, but they will work for most students.
  1. Come to class and actively participate while there.
    • A lot of material is presented in class that is not covered in the textbook.
    • Class discussion often uses current events in order to make the concepts more understandable and practical.
    • Actively engage the material by taking notes, asking questions, and making comments.
    • If you have to miss a class, borrow a classmate's notes.

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  2. Study the assigned readings and handouts carefully.
    • Make sure to study (not just scan or highlight) all (not just bits and pieces) of the assigned readings in the textbook and on the WWW.
    • Maximize your effectiveness while studying the textbook by employing some or all of the effective study tips in "How to Use the Textbook".
    • It is best to read the assigned chapters just before or immediately after they are discussed in class.

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  3. Prepare for and participate in "Current Events Fridays."
    • Stay informed weekly on significant current events in Africa by checking the "News" link in The Africa Library.
    • Try relating current events to the concepts of the course.
    • Actively participate in the discussion on "Current Events Fridays."

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  4. Use the exam study guide wisely.
    • Use the sample study questions in preparation for the final exam (there will not be a study guide for the take-home mid-term exam). 
    • The exam study guide is NOT a substitute for coming to class or studying the textbook.
    • Review your notes and read the textbook BEFORE using the exam study guide.

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  5. Interact with the instructor and your classmates.
    • Discuss the course concepts and assignments with your classmates.
    • Exchange ideas via e-mail or organize a study group to meet in the library.
    • Take turns explaining concepts to your classmates. One of the best ways to learn something is to teach it to someone else.
    • Contact the instructor to ask questions.


Last revised January 9, 2000.