Methods for Memorization
Posted on | October 15, 2008 |
Now that I have reached the point of at-least-three-tests-per-week, I’m really trying to figure out how to memorize all of these acupuncture points and herbs. I’ve got the flashcard making thing down, but that’s just helping me to pass the tests. I don’t feel like I’ve got the greatest handle on things, since the information seems to get farther and farther away as the test is completed. I’ve read the sight/sound/taste, etc… information, but it just doesn’t seem all that real, and it honestly doesn’t seem all that concrete. I’m searching for some really specific methods to help.
Some methods I’ve found so far:
Flashcards: I originally started by going through these in order (so HT 9, HT 8, HT 7, etc) and I found that I organized the information based on which card came next. It took me a couple of channels to learn that I really needed to shuffle the cards throroughly each time I went through them. This is the same for herbs, I am actually memorizing herbs based on the other herbs they are listed by, or the herb that they follow in my flashcards. This is not something I’m doing on purpose, but something that seems to be happening pretty spontaneously - and while it works for the test, it doesn’t last and I can’t see it working in clinic. The pre-made flashcards are sitting in the corner, cause they just don’t work for me. Part of the learning is making the cards, and I’ve got specific information that I’m focusing on and the only way I can get that is to make the card myself. I have also enjoyed using this online flashcard creator.
Joe Curcio: Okay, holy Golden Dragon, Batman. This guy rocks. I found these great CD’s called Tunes on Tangs and Songs on Sans, and these are fantastic. He’s got songs on almost 60 formulas. You can click on the link to listen to 12 of the songs and decide if you want to pay the 40 bucks to buy it. I’m not in formulas yet, but I’m definitely grabbing this (while the financial aid is still flowing). If you’ve ever had a tune get stuck in your head, this should work for you.
I’m using my herb samples to make a binder with flashcards and samples side by side and I’ve been printing off pictures of the live herb. That’s definitely been helpful for remembering, but not fullproof.
Any other ideas? Thank you so much!
Tags: acupuncture > acupuncture points > learning > memorization > memorize > memorizing > points
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This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution.
November 6th, 2008 @ 6:12 pm
The key to memorization is engagement and repetition. Try to USE the information you need to remember, perhaps plotting a treatment for an imaginary patient in your case. Mnemonic devices, such as your Xiao Chang story, are also a good way of doing this. While reading, writing and speaking aloud from flashcards can be very helpful, your brain will remember things better when you actively engage the information. Most importantly, repeat, repeat, repeat.