Page 285 - Learning to Learn

LEARNING TO LEARN: BECOMING A SELF -GROWER 285
EXPERIENCE 10: READING FOR LEARNING READING
Examining the Reading Methodology
The Reading Methodology is a valuable tool that you can use to improve reading comprehension. In
addition, there are some general guidelines that you can adapt to various reading situations. If you want
to see improvement in your reading, you should be prepared to practice using the Reading Methodology
often enough to get proficient with it. Realize, however, that not every step is required for all reading
contexts. Trying to use all the steps in the methodology in all contexts can lead to frustration and discourage
you from using the methodology. Initially focus on using the Reading Methodology in academic reading
situations where it is an especially useful and appropriate guide to follow.
Step Explanation
1 Establish purpose Determine why you’re reading the material.
2 Set learning objectives Determine what you want to learn from the reading.
3 Set performance criteria Determine how you’ll know you read successfully.
4 Estimate time involved Browse the reading to determine the level of difficulty, and how long it
should take you to complete the reading.
5 Vocabulary terms Browse the reading for vocabulary terms that are unfamiliar (keep a
dictionary handy to look up unfamiliar words and write down definitions
so you can refer back to them).
6 Outline Survey the structure of the reading, so you understand the organization
of content.
7 Quick Read Complete a quick reading, largely skimming the content for the author’s
purpose, intended audience, type of writing and key emphasis areas
(diagrams and pictures) to prepare for developing initial questions.
Note any questions you have as you begin to read.
8 Comprehensive Read Read carefully using your initial questions, taking notes and
highlighting important passages, annotating in the margins and
marking difficult passages to answer your questions, formulate new
questions, and support your ideas.
9 Inquiry Questions Elevate the inquiry to higher levels of learning, so more significant
issues can be addressed by applying this knowledge.
10 Synthesis Think about what you’ve read, combine the parts, sections, or ideas
into a whole and produce learning around your learning objectives.
11 Integration Integrate new information you’ve learned with your existing knowledge
base to find new ways to apply this knowledge in your life.
12 Assessment Assess your progress. Did you meet your learning objectives? How
long did the reading take? How could you improve your reading
performance in future?