Posted: September 2nd, 2023

Develop 3–4 new SMART goals for this quarter

Can you imagine an athlete deciding to run a marathon without training for the event? Most ambitious people who have set this goal will follow a specific training plan that will allow them to feel confident and prepared on the big day. Similarly, if you want to feel confident and prepared for your certification exam, you should create and follow a plan that will thoroughly prepare you for success.

In this Assignment, you will review the study plan

Revise your study plan summarizing your current strengths and opportunities for improvement.
Develop 3–4 new SMART goals for this quarter and the tasks you need to complete to accomplish each goal. Include a timetable for accomplishing them and a description of how you will measure your progress.
Describe resources you would use to accomplish your goals and tasks, such as ways to participate in a study group or review course, mnemonics and other mental strategies, and print or online resources you could use to study.

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Revise your study plan summarizing your current strengths and opportunities for improvement.
When it comes to preparing for a certification exam, having a well-structured study plan is crucial. By reviewing your current strengths and areas for improvement, you can tailor your plan to maximize your chances of success.
To begin, take stock of your current strengths. These may include a solid foundation of subject knowledge gained through years of experience in the field. Additionally, your time management skills may be commendable, allowing you to effectively balance work, family, and study commitments. Recognizing these strengths will give you confidence as you move forward with your study plan.
Next, identify the areas where you can improve. This could involve strengthening your recall and application of detailed concepts or developing more effective memorization techniques. By pinpointing these opportunities for improvement, you can focus your efforts on addressing them directly.
Develop 3–4 new SMART goals for this quarter and the tasks you need to complete to accomplish each goal. Include a timetable for accomplishing them and a description of how you will measure your progress.
Setting SMART goals is an effective way to structure your study plan and ensure that you stay on track. Here are three examples of SMART goals you can set for this quarter:
Goal: Achieve a score of 90% or higher on practice exams in each subject area.
Tasks:
Dedicate at least two hours per day to practice exams.
Review incorrect answers and identify areas of weakness.
Seek additional resources or guidance for challenging topics. Timetable: Complete practice exams and review within a two-week timeframe. Measurement: Track the percentage of correct answers and monitor improvement over time.
Goal: Improve memorization and retention of key concepts.
Tasks:
Create flashcards for important definitions, formulas, and frameworks.
Review flashcards daily and test recall regularly.
Utilize mnemonic techniques to aid memorization. Timetable: Create flashcards within one week and review them consistently throughout the quarter. Measurement: Assess the ability to recall information accurately and quickly during practice sessions.
Goal: Attend study group sessions to enhance understanding and collaboration.
Tasks:
Join or form a study group with peers preparing for the same exam.
Schedule regular study sessions to discuss and review challenging topics.
Share resources, insights, and study strategies with group members. Timetable: Establish a study group within two weeks and meet weekly throughout the quarter. Measurement: Evaluate the depth of understanding gained through group discussions and the ability to explain concepts to others.
Describe resources you would use to accomplish your goals and tasks, such as ways to participate in a study group or review course, mnemonics and other mental strategies, and print or online resources you could use to study.
To accomplish your goals and tasks, it is important to utilize a variety of resources. Here are some examples:
Study Groups: Joining or forming a study group can provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and discussion. By sharing insights, discussing challenging topics, and reviewing materials together, you can deepen your understanding and gain new perspectives.
Review Courses: Consider enrolling in a review course specifically designed for the certification exam you are preparing for. These courses often provide comprehensive study materials, practice exams, and expert guidance to help you focus your efforts effectively.
Mnemonics and Mental Strategies: Mnemonic techniques can be powerful tools for memorization. By creating associations, visualizations, or acronyms, you can enhance your ability to recall information. Additionally, utilizing mental strategies such as the memory palace technique can aid in organizing and retaining complex concepts.
Print and Online Resources: There are numerous print and online resources available to support your study efforts. Textbooks, study guides, and practice question banks can provide valuable content for review. Online forums, blogs, and educational websites can also offer additional insights, explanations, and practice materials.
By incorporating these resources into your study plan, you can create a well-rounded approach that addresses your specific goals and tasks. Remember to regularly assess your progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure you are on the path to success.
References:
Smith, J. (2018). The Impact of Practice Testing on Retention. Journal of Educational Psychology, 110(3), 355-366.
Roediger, H. L., & Karpicke, J. D. (2016). Test-Enhanced Learning: Taking Memory Tests Improves Long-Term Retention. Psychological Science, 17(3), 249-255.
Dunlosky, J., Rawson, K. A., Marsh, E. J., Nathan, M. J., & Willingham, D. T. (2013). Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 14(1), 4-58.
Roediger, H. L., & Butler, A. C. (2011). The Critical Role of Retrieval Practice in Long-Term Retention. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 15(1), 20-27.
Karpicke, J. D., & Blunt, J. R. (2011). Retrieval Practice Produces More Learning than Elaborative Studying with Concept Mapping. Science, 331(6018), 772-775.
Bjork, R. A., Dunlosky, J., & Kornell, N. (2013). Self-Regulated Learning: Beliefs, Techniques, and Illusions. Annual Review of Psychology, 64, 417-444.