Study Smarter, Not Harder

The Study Smarter, Not Harder workshop was designed to support MIU students particularly adult learners balancing school, work, and caregiving by offering practical and personalized study strategies grounded in both modern learning science and Ayurvedic principles. The goal was to help students move away from burnout-driven habits like cramming and passive note-taking, and instead cultivate an aligned, sustainable, and efficient approach to learning.

Core Topics Covered:

1. Learning Styles + Dosha Types:
   Students took self-assessments to identify both their dominant learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic) and Ayurvedic dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). The workshop then guided students through how these two factors combine to shape their ideal study habits.

2. Effective Note-Taking Techniques:
   Participants learned five core note-taking methods: Cornell Notes, Mind Mapping, Sketch Notes, Flashcards, and Color Coding.

3. Time-Based Study Rhythms:
   We introduced the concept of Ayurvedic daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms to help students determine their optimal times for focus, creativity, and rest. This helped them better align study sessions with their natural energy patterns.

4. Understanding MLOs & CLOs:
   The workshop broke down how Module Learning Objectives (MLOs) and Course-Level Objectives (CLOs) act as built-in study guides. Students were shown how to focus their efforts around these objectives and decode assignment expectations using Bloom’s Taxonomy verbs (e.g., “describe,” “evaluate,” “apply”).

5. Building a Personalized Study Plan:
   Students were given space and structure to map their weekly schedule based on fixed commitments, coursework demands (12 hours/week per course), energy patterns, and buffer time for rest and recharge.

6. Reflection & Habit Tracking:
   To support long-term success, students closed the workshop by creating personal study intentions and filling out a one-week habit tracker with the affirmation:
   “I am becoming the kind of student I admire.”

Student Takeaways:

• A clearer understanding of their personal study needs and habits

• Specific tools to increase retention, reduce procrastination, and maintain energy

• A customized, holistic weekly plan they can adapt to their schedule

• A downloadable self-guided workbook to revisit and use throughout the term