In-class training is great – you get the experience of the trainer, learn in a collaborative environment and the focus that a class room brings – being away from your usual environment helps too.
Here are 5 ridiculously easy and practical things you can do to help retain and recall information gained in your course. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity, implementing all of these ‘hacks’ into your training day can make a difference without much effort at all.
- Drinking Water
This sounds too easy right? It is, but this very simple ‘bio-hack’ helps keep your brain elastic, focused and hydrated. According to Joshua Gowin, Ph.D. in Psychology, “Years of research have found that when we're parched, we have more difficulty keeping our attention focused. Dehydration can impair short-term memoryfunction and the recall of long-term memory.” So, simply bring a water bottle into class and keep hydrated! - Exercise
Going for a 20-30 minute walk/jog/run (depending on your current fitness) will help improve blood flow throughout your day which has a great impact on your focus.
In today’s world of flashing cell phones and beeping technology, we all need the skill to ignore distractions and concentrate on the task at hand. It appears that exercise can help us survive in an increasingly connected world. - Front Row seaters
Studies have shown that where you choose to sit in a classroom, lecture or any presentation can impact how you learn. Choosing to be a ‘Front Row Seater’ can help improve your attentiveness, focus and overall engagement. Next time you have to choose where to sit – why not give the front row a go.
- Note taking
Taking simple notes can help translate what you’ve heard and help store it in your brain. The old pen and paper may be a lost or dying art, but physically jotting down notes can significantly help with recall. Most people these days travel with smart phones and these are a great tool for taking notes but for an all day course could be monotonous. Next time you’re taking notes try keeping it simple with a pen and pad. - Asking Questions
The mere thought of asking questions in front of your colleagues can be enough to start your heart racing - and you’re not alone. But asking questions are a great way to help refocus, and ensure you understand the material being taught.
We hope these five easy tips help! Col Joy Training have a great team of experienced trainers who actively engage with course participants to help make their training experience the best possible!
