Published: Nov. 7, 2018

Having trouble concentrating in large lecture classes? Check out these tips for CU students from CU students, collected by the Office of Information Technology in a campuswide survey. 

Students listen to lecture in a large classroomSit toward the front of the classroom

You’re less likely to be distracted the closer you are to the instructor.

Put away your electronic devices

70 percent of students reported other students' devices were distracting. 49 percent of students reported their own devices were a distraction. So put your electronics away unless your using them for note-taking and class activities.

Print and review lecture materials beforehand

Use class time to actively listen to the lecture instead of scrambling to write everything down.

Take handwritten notes on paper

Actively writing notes by hand can help you stay focused.

Ask questions, join the discussion

Talk to your instructor and ask questions about the course material. Connecting with your instructor and TAs can help keep you engaged during lecture and make your class time more productive.

Stay hydrated, energized

Stay hydrated and energized with healthy drinks and snacks. Doing so will help you to stay alert and focused on learning.

Connect with other students in the class

Forming study groups is a great way to learn, prepare for exams and meet new friends.

Learn more about OIT's large lecture discovery work.