Editors: Regan A.R. Gurung and John Dunlosky
Publisher: American Psychological Association
Publication Date: January 2023
ISBN: 978-1-4338-4017-3
Pages: 204
Price: $17.24 (members/affiliates); $22.99 (nonmembers)
Study Like A Champ by Regan A. R. Gurung and John Dunlosky is a must-read for high school and college students. Based on the authors’ own empirical research, this new guide to studying encourages the reader to reevaluate their study patterns and consider new, more effective ones. The book begins with a chapter titled “So you think you know how to study? Let’s FoK About It,” which calls on the reader to consider whether their method of studying is conducive to learning and academic performance. The authors then parse the meaning of FoK, a cognitive science term for “feeling of knowing.” In the context of studying and learning, this concept suggests that while students may believe they have a firm grasp of the material, in reality, this “FoK” is often not an accurate representation. In subsequent chapters, the authors highlight steps to more effective studying methods, from the planning stages to note-taking skills.
Throughout the book, the authors debunk myths about studying and learning. They also urge readers to not be discouraged by the acknowledgement of these myths, but to instead reshape their perspective about effective learning strategies. Fortunately, to help readers with this perspective change, the authors devote the second section of the book to detailed illustrations of the modes of studying that have been proven conducive to learning as a whole. In other words, as the authors debunk various false perceptions surrounding basic principles of learning and studying, they also offer new, empirically-based methods that readers can use to replace ineffective strategies.
Another valuable feature of this book is different surveys that allow the reader to engage personally with the content and, in turn, provide scaffolding for evaluating and altering one’s study habits. This combination of exercises that help students self-evaluate their strategies and descriptions of new, more effective methods allows the reader to identify where one’s learning methods are or are not beneficial. In addition, it lays the groundwork for alternative methods the reader can use to bolster their academic experiences and tactics.
While this is undoubtedly an illuminating read for students interested in psychology, the tools put forth in the new guide are essential for any student. The new publication is a way for students to improve their academic habits and strengthen their learning. Study Like A Champ is an excellent way for students to analyze their learning and manifest new ways of thinking about studying, as well as how to get the most out of their academic journey as a whole.
