Learning Challenge: The Pomodoro Technique

For this Learning Challenge I chose to read about the Pomodoro technique. This is a studying/work technique that uses a timer to help you space out work and breaks. I chose this because I tend to race against the clock when I do school work and I think this technique could help me make better, more efficient use of time. The purpose of this strategy is to teach you to work with time, instead of against it. By taking short, scheduled breaks, it is easier to eliminate burnouts and manage distractions. I have tried this technique before and had good results. By taking a short break every 30 minutes to an hour I was able to get much more done in that time period than I can when I just work for hours on end. The Pomodoro Technique can be used by anyone with just about any task and I recommend trying it out.

Pomodoro Timer (Source)

Learning Challenge: Sleep

I chose this learning challenge because my sleep cycle is not where I want it to be. I tend to stay up late and sleep in and I would rather be able to the fall asleep earlier and wake up earlier to be productive. I read an article that compared the importance of studying compared to a good nights rest. I chose this one because when I study for exams I usually study late into the night before the test and don't get much sleep and I have heard that this is not a good way to prepare for an exam. I learned that when you don't get a good nights sleep, your brain can't repair itself enough and that makes it hard to retain info and learn more. The article recommends that students not sacrifice sleep in order to study because that will actually backfire and have the opposite of the desired effect.

Bibliography: Why Sleeping May Be More Important Than Studying by Katrina Schwartz (Link)

Sleep (Source)

Learning Challenge: Health

For this learning challenge, I read an article on deskercise. Deskersice is the name given to small exercises you can do at your desk to help keep you comfortable and focused. I chose this because I have always had a hard time sitting down and staying still. I think these exercises could really help me with that issue. Most of the ideas that I liked from this article were small stretches and movements that would help keep my muscles relaxed and comfortable. Things like neck and shoulder stretches, arm stretches, and back workouts. These are the areas that usually cause me some discomfort and I think the ideas in the article could really help.

Bibliography: Deskercise: 17 Exercises You Can Do At or Near Your Desk by JoAnn McFarland (Link)

My life (Source)