By Mr Hasmukh Christian for BIS Mumbai

Kawant, July 12, 2025: Don Bosco High School, Kawant, in Gujarat, organised a workshop on Study Techniques for students of Standards 9 and 10, with the objective of helping them explore effective strategies for academic learning and retention. A total of 200 students participated in the two-hour session, which was facilitated by Mr Hasmukh Christian.

The event began with a welcome address and the introduction of the speaker by Fr Agnel Dias, Principal of the English Medium section. The session commenced with a brief overview of Disha Sanstha and its focus areas, after which the resource person led the training.

The workshop focused on two well-established study methods: the Pomodoro Technique and Active Recall. Both techniques were introduced through an engaging PowerPoint presentation, offering practical insights into time management and memory retention.

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that encourages students to work in short, focused intervals. The process involves choosing a task, setting a 25-minute timer, working without interruption, and then taking a 5-minute break. After completing four such intervals, a longer break of 25–30 minutes is recommended. This method helps students maintain concentration.

The second method introduced was Active Recall, which is based on retrieving information from memory rather than passively rereading notes. The steps include:

1. Reading and understanding the material

2. Creating flashcards or self-made quizzes

3. Testing oneself without referring to the material

4. Reviewing and repeating the process

5. Using spaced repetition to reinforce long-term retention

6. Students were also encouraged to apply Active Recall using techniques such as summarising notes, creating concept maps, and engaging in group discussions.

By following these steps, students can effectively use active recall to improve their learning and retention.

Members of the teaching staff were present during the session and supported the initiative. The students expressed their optimism that these different study techniques would be of great benefit to them in their academic journey.