30 Study Habits of Outstanding Elementary School Students

Author: Geng Yulin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-09-01
Features: Don't pretend not to understand; if you don't know, you must ask a professor—this awkward situation once occurred in a university: A professor took a one-dollar bill out of his pocket, held it high, flushed red, and shouted, "Who can ask a question, I'll reward them with one dollar!" The professor was American and taught at Beijing Foreign Studies University. He taught history and religion, and after finishing his lecture, he asked if anyone had questions. No one spoke up. He urged everyone to ask questions because otherwise, he wouldn’t know how much they had understood or what the next focus of the lecture should be. Even so, no one raised their hand. The professor grew impatient—no, to say he was angry! He thought this was a sign of disrespect from the Chinese students toward him. "No knowledge is beyond question. Is every word I say flawless? Did you not listen at all or are you simply imbeciles?" His other fist pounded the desk. The atmosphere in the classroom instantly became tense, and the students below were terrified. They had never seen such a scene before! Where would a teacher force students to ask questions? It’s about asking questions even when you think you know the answer! If you don’t understand, ask. Only by asking will you understand; even after understanding, you must ask again, because through detailed explanations from others, you can refine your knowledge and continuously progress. The word "learning" () itself means "diligent study and questioning." Ask others, but more importantly, ask yourself. We should always ask questions and encourage ourselves to find the answers.
P22-23 How to Develop the Habit of Asking Questions?
01 Prepare Thoroughly
Think ahead, compare notes during class, and strive to stay one step ahead of the professor’s thought process. If your ideas differ from the professor’s, listen to their explanation first, then raise your hand to share your own perspective. Actively participate in class discussions. When discussing, listen carefully to your classmates’ remarks while also thinking deeply about your own ideas and viewpoints.
02 Add "Why" Before Key Concepts
Add "Why" before key concepts, and now you have a question! First, independently think about the answer and try to respond to the question you’ve raised. If you can’t find a satisfactory answer, turn to the professor and other classmates for help.
03 Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions That Seem Foolish
Boldly ask the questions that puzzle you, without caring how the professor or your classmates might see you. Believe that your unique questions are enough to earn the professor’s attention. Remember this: "In the pursuit of knowledge, unique ideas are the best motivation for discovering new knowledge."