"A.S.P.I.R.E." A Study System

Text of the A.S.P.I.R.E. exercise:

A: Approach/attitude/arrange

• Approach your studies with a positive attitude
• Arrange your schedule to eliminate distractions

S: Select/survey/scan

• Select a reasonable chunk of material to study
• Survey the headings, graphics, pre- and post questions to get an overview
• Scan the text for keywords and vocabulary: mark what you don’t understand

P: Piece together the parts:

• Put aside your books and notes
• Piece together what you've studied, either alone, with a study pal or group:
  summarize what you understand.

I: Investigate/inquire/inspect:

• Investigate alternative sources of information you can refer to:
  other text books, websites, experts, tutors, etc.
• Inquire from support professionals (academic support, librarians, tutors, teachers, experts,) and other resources for assistance
• Inspect what you did not understand.

R: Reexamine/reflect/relay
Reexamine the content | Reflect on the material | Relay understanding

• Reexamine:
  What questions are there yet to ask? Is there something I am missing?
• Reflect:
  How can I apply this to my project? Is there a new application for it?
• Relay:
  Can I explain this to my fellow students? Will they understand it better if I do?

E: Evaluate/examine/explore:

• Evaluate your grades on tests and tasks: look for a pattern
• Examine your progress: toward achieving your goals
• Explore options: with a teacher, support professional, tutor, parent if you are not satisfied.