This document provides tips and strategies for students to avoid distractions and improve focus when learning and studying. Some key points include: identifying your best time of day to study; studying difficult subjects first; using the same place to study each time; breaking projects into sections; setting time limits without distractions; setting aside break times; avoiding distraction from phones and social media; turning off wireless connections during study times; and setting house rules for internet use. The overall message is that being organized and limiting distractions is important for effective learning.

1. Learning and Technology How do you learn? When do you learn? When do I chat to friends? When do I watch TV? Play Sport? Read a book? Play a game?

2. For organisation...

3. Daily organisation...

4. Expectations...

5. You Outlook Calendar

6. General Tips Identify your best time of the day Study difficult or boring subjects first Use the same place to study every time Use the library Avoid distraction – have phone in other room, close facebook, close skype.

7. MrKachel’s Goals for Year 7 Be organised in all you paper and digital files. – Take the time to get organised. Talk to your teachers and your parents!! Use a planner for all assignments. Break projects into sections and set aside time to complete each. Time – 30 minutes without distractions – Can you get to 55 minutes for an in class test? Set aside break time – and set a length to your break. Use your network of friends for good Don’t distract others

8. 5 ways to Avoid Distractions Turnoff your wireless and internet connection Set aside specific time for social networking and recreational internet use Take short breaks Do your work now rather than later Prioritise http://zenhabits.net/2010/04/teen-distractions/

9. Tips for dealing with excessive internet use Communicate Talk to their children about what they enjoy doing online and try to understand their interests. Set house rules Work out some boundaries for their children's access to the internet. It is better that children understand what parents expect rather than trying to work it out for themselves. Families can determine some consequences together if the rules are broken. Supervise Make sure they can adequately supervise what their children are doing online, particularly younger children. They can move the computer into a public area of the house to make it easier. Introduce other family activities Ensuring children are exposed to a range of other, non-internet-based activities is a good way to help them lead a balanced lifestyle. http://www.cybersmart.gov.au