Get Real About Revision By Turning It Into Child's Play

As your last chance to cram in all-important knowledge, revision is a pretty big deal. In fact, you could go as far as to say that the time you spend studying will have a direct impact on your results. At least, it will if you embark on a kind of revision that speaks to you.

It might go against what we ‘believe’ good revision to be, but the simple fact is that sitting at a desk and reading the same information time and again will never work for all of us. In fact, the people who can genuinely benefit from this revision style are few and far between.

This is for a few different reasons, including the fact that sit-down revision is uninspiring, unengaging, and ultimately not very memorable. By comparison, a revision technique that incorporates something like gaming can be a lot more effective overall.

This is by no means to say that you should replace revision with entirely unrelated gaming sessions. But, if you incorporate practice exam questions and fact-sharing within some fun games, you might find that your exam results are also a lot more fun to receive. And, we’re going to consider why that is. 

Image Source: CC0 Licence

More incentive to get started

Gamification techniques in revision are great for one plain and obvious reason – they make it far easier to get started with and even enjoy the revision process. Forget forcing yourself to sit down at your desk and getting distracted by every last thing that’s more appealing than the task at hand. When you bring games into the mix, you make revision fun and ensure that it attracts your full attention far more often. The result? You’ll probably reach for that revision fun way more often during the leadup to your exam and will enjoy yourself in the process. 

A chance to share knowledge

There are loads of great team games that can work well for revision purposes with a little adaptation. As well as providing you with a chance to spend time with your mates during a period where you might otherwise have to lock yourself away in a room, this is great for enhancing your accessible knowledge base. Playing study games with friends whom you share seminars with can be especially enlightening, as the chances are that you’ve each retained a slightly different knowledge base. Not only will this bring brand new facts and observations to your attention, but you may also find that your friend brings an entirely new outlook to the topic that could just end up tipping your grade when push comes to shove. 

Sorting out your stress

Studies reveal that as many as 40% of students experience some level of exam stress, especially if they’re engaging in three or more hours of daily revision beforehand. In large part, revision-centric stress especially comes from things like intense hours of sit-down study, and the social deprivation that inevitably brings. But, guess what games are great for? Stress-busting, of course. Revision-based gaming, alone, can make an otherwise intense process a lot more relaxed and enjoyable. Bringing other people on board as mentioned can help you to continue getting much-needed socialisation and the relaxation that brings. All of which will help you to maintain a better headspace before, during, and after your exams. Not to mention that, when you aren’t putting such crippling pressure on yourself, you’ll probably learn a lot more, too. 

Image Source: CC0 Licence

Making learning memorable

We all learn in different ways. If you can sit down, read a textbook, and retain everything it says, then more power to you. But, especially when you’re preparing for multiple exams in different subjects, few people will be able to remember every last fact this way. Eventually, you may even find that all of your revision hours just blur into one indistinguishable blob.

By comparison, revision games can provide far more memorable retention of important facts, dates, studies, and beyond. This is especially true if you break things up with, say, a different kind of game for each subject. That way, when you’re in your exam, you can simply think back to the game in question, and should be able to remember things like the questions you got wrong, as well as everything that you learned during gameplay. 

Revision is an incredibly personal thing, and there’s no one ‘right’ way to learn. But, if book-based revision doesn’t do the trick for you, then what have you got to lose from introducing a few fun revision games into the mix?

How To Balance Gaming And Studying As A Student

You love gaming, but you also have a responsibility to your academic work. That said, you may be wondering how to balance both worlds. Video games offer many benefits, even for a student. Studies show how it can improve academic performance through better cognitive and critical thinking skills. But gaming can also become a distraction if you fail to manage your screen time properly. It’s easily addictive, and you can spend countless time behind your favorite game to the detriment of your books. You can have a productive student life without losing your passion for gaming. These tips will help you manage both worlds.


Make a schedule 

Image credit 

Start by making a list of things you have to do each day and determine what times will be convenient enough to play your games. Ideally, you want to ensure that you complete every task before you sit behind your screen. Gaming is great, but your academic work should be your main priority, and your schedule should reflect this fact. So, design a schedule that prioritizes completing assignments, studies, projects, and other types of schoolwork before gaming. This way, you won’t have to feel guilty when playing your games. You can also use games as a good way to break from long and stressful academic hours. But schedule them in a way that they won’t interrupt your other day’s activities. 


Set a reward period

You can use gaming as a reward after completing schoolwork, a project, or an assignment. Doing this can even motivate you to study more or complete important assignments ahead of time so you can reward yourself. So, set up a system where you can play for a certain amount of time only after you’ve accomplished or completed an academic work. Doing this might also help you resist the urge to play all the time, allowing you to build some willpower. And when it’s time to play, choose games that will actually feel rewarding, depending on what game types or genres you enjoy. For example, if you’re into the scary stuff, you can reward yourself with some great games from the Scary Games Vault. This way, you’ll feel more refreshed and ready to focus on schoolwork again after your gaming session.


Don’t try multitasking when playing

Regardless of how good you are as a gamer, please don’t convince yourself that you can play a game while studying because you can’t. So, once it’s gaming time, embrace the moment and enjoy the experience. Once it’s schoolwork time, your attention should be off your games. This way, you can focus on one thing at a time and give your best to what you do in each moment. 



Separate your workspace from your play area

Image credit 

Some gamers struggle to resist the lure of gaming when they should be studying. If you’re one of those, it’s best to separate your study desk and your gaming station. Of course, this can be a bit challenging if you live in a dormitory and only have limited space. In that case, you can take your studies outside, preferably in a library. The idea is to find someone comfortable and far away from your gaming station so you can concentrate on your studies.

Who Needs a Stethoscope When You Can Rock a Cape? Different Ways to Be a Lifesaver!

Alright, you aspiring superheroes out there! Think saving lives is all about stethoscopes and saying "Ah"? Nuh-uh! The world's brimming with adrenaline-packed, heart-thumping, life-saving gigs that won't have you drowning in med school debt. Buckle up, buttercup; we're about to tour some epic careers that are all about being the real MVP – minus the white coat!

Via Pexels

EMTs: Like Uber, but for Saving Lives

Let's kick off with the Emergency Medical Technicians. These are the rock gods of the emergency world. Picture this: sirens blazing, you're zooming through traffic, and every decision is a cliffhanger! The best bit? You can trade years of med school for a few action-packed months of training. And here's a kicker – EMT Scholarships! Yep, some kind souls out there are paying you to become a life-saving ninja on wheels. This is your playground if you're more relaxed than a cucumber in a freezer and have a heart bigger than Texas.

Firefighters: Not Just Cat-Tree Rescuers

Next up, firefighters. These aren't your average cat-in-a-tree rescuers; they're the first ones running into what everyone else is running away from. Dream of being a hero? This is as close as it gets. You'll need muscles, brains, and a heart of gold. Plus, who can resist the charm of a fire pole? Spoiler alert: it's as fun as it loo

Mind Menders: The Superheroes of the Soul

Switching lanes, let's chat about mental health professionals. We're talking psychologists, psychiatrists, and the folks who are there to catch you when life throws a curveball. They're battling the unseen and making sure your noggin stays as fit as a fiddle. If you've got the gift of the gab and an ear that can listen for days, you're in for a life-changing ride.

Biomedical Engineers: The Tony Starks of Medicine

Now, for the tech whizzes: biomedical engineers. These brainiacs are the Tony Starks of the medical world, cooking up gadgets and gizmos that save lives. Think Iron Man, but instead of fighting bad guys, you're inventing cool prosthetics and life-saving devices. No cape is needed; your brain's the real hero here.

Social Workers - The Heart and Soul of Community Care

Social workers, oh, how we love thee! These incredible people work in diverse settings - hospitals, schools, social service agencies - and play a pivotal role in safeguarding vulnerable populations. They help individuals and families navigate life's toughest challenges. If you've got empathy as deep as the ocean and the resilience of a mountain, this is your arena.

Teachers: Shaping Future Lifesavers

And finally, a toast to the teachers! The unsung heroes are shaping the minds that will save our tomorrow. Do you think Einstein just happened? Nah, he had a teacher. Teachers are the OG lifesavers, sparking passions and igniting futures. Whether it's breaking down the ABCs or guiding through teenage angst, they're the real MVPs in the game of life.


Saving lives isn't just about holding a scalpel; it's about holding onto hope, dreams, and, sometimes, a fire hose. Whether you're tearing down the road in an ambulance, crafting the next medical breakthrough, or shaping young minds, you're doing the superhero thing. So, what are you waiting for? Your cape's ready and waiting. Go out there and save the world your way!

How Does Rest Help When You Are Studying?

When deadlines are nearing and the workload is piling up, the process of learning and studying can start to feel like a little too much. You tend to go through a quiet phase of studying during the Winter, however, the pace will soon start to speed up in the new year, therefore it’s important to be prepared. 

Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash

You will suddenly go from a slow-paced relaxing feel to a sprint to cross the finishing line of another year of study. Some people will work themselves so much that they end up with anxiety, stress, and burnout. 

It is important to rest and it’s important to choose to rest. You shouldn’t feel guilty about resting. 

Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of resting when you’re studying: 


It Can Improve Your Memory

It has been seen that when you have short, repetitive sessions of studying/learning with added breaks you can increase concentration and memory.  It could be that you study for an hour and then take 10 minutes to recoup or play google minesweeper so you have taken your mind to something else. It doesn't even have to be on the computer, you could step away, get something to eat, go for a walk, or do a hobby for an hour. It’s what suits you. 


It Can Boost Your Energy Levels

Do you ever feel as though your energy has been zapped when you are learning something new? You’re not alone. It’s very common for your energy levels to drop when you are focusing all your attention on one task. When you take some time to rest you are enabling your body to recover. If you are someone who can have power naps, these are a great way to get your energy levels back up. Just 15 minutes is enough. 


It Can Reduce Stress

If you’re constantly worried about deadlines, grades, or learning a new topic, your stress levels can be running high. This can have both a mental and physical impact on your health. Taking breaks and having rest can help to reduce your stress levels


It Can Improve Your Health 

When you sleep and rest it can have a positive impact on your immune system. It has also been seen to reduce the risk of heart attacks and inflammation, this means that you should take advantage of any time you have to rest. Weekends and school holidays are there for a reason. Make sure you use them and enjoy them rather than filling them with more study. 


It Can Improve Your Creativity And Performance

When you take some time to rest it gives you the time to think about tasks in a different way. Being stuck on a problem for a few days? Try taking a break and the answer may just pop out at you. Once you’re back at work you will have a fresh set of eyes and rested brain which is more likely to be creative and come up with answers. 


These are just five of the benefits of resting when you study. Do you have any others that should be included? Please add them to the comments below.

Compelling Reasons to Opt for Online Accelerated BSN Programs

Nurses play an integral role in the health system in the United States, ensuring care and positive patient outcomes. Online accelerated BSN programs can help equip aspiring nurses with foundational knowledge and the necessary skills to become registered nurses. Throughout this article, we will explore some compelling reasons why students should opt for online accelerated BSN programs, delving deeper into the benefits they can provide.

Leveraging Your Skills: Application Insights

Second-career nurses come from various backgrounds, including business, social sciences, and public administration. So, would-be applicants looking to pursue second degree BSN programs online should never be put off because they lack a strong background in the STEM field to become a nurse. For example, one of the compelling reasons to opt for online accelerated BSN programs is that you can leverage your skills from previous roles in different industries and create a successful career in nursing. Soft skills like time management and communication from other roles can be instrumental in nursing.

Fast-Track Entry: BSN Accelerated Programs Unveiled

Another compelling reason to opt for an online accelerated BSN program is the fast-track entry it can provide nursing practitioners within the job market. For example, an online accelerated BSN program usually provides students with skills and academic education in less than 24 months. 

This means it takes students half the time to complete an accelerated BSN program online than it would to complete a conventional nursing degree. Once the program is completed, students can take the nursing board exam needed to become a licensed nurse. But why is the process so quick? Its fast-paced nature is because the accelerated program focuses on primary nursing education since most students meet the requirements during their first bachelor's degree.

Consistent Support: Pathway to Success

A seamless learning experience and consistent online support from faculty members are other compelling reasons to pursue a second-degree BSN program online. For example, students don't need to schedule in-person meetings to chat with department heads or instructors. More convenient methods for students are available, such as emails, video conferencing, online discussion forums, and many more.

These options can eliminate feelings surrounding anxiety related to public speaking; however, they still give students the chance to connect and maintain close relationships with other students who are enrolled in the course. This is another compelling reason to consider a BSN program online, as students will get to reflect on subject matters before answering any questions due to the online format.

Tailored Learning: BSN Accelerated Programs

Conventional learning models usually require students to attend lectures during specific timeframes, which can inconvenience many. However, BSN accelerated programs provide online curriculums that allow students to plan their studies around their lifestyles, which is one of the most compelling attractions to pursuing this form of education. For example, coursework is usually handed out through virtual sessions, and students can review tests and complete the work set when it's most convenient for them to do so.

BSN accelerated programs can provide this form of education through learning management systems that provide versatile learning content adaptable to different learning styles. Furthermore, this form of learning can be used to understand the different curriculums of the course better, as students can access different sections when they please.

Rising Need for Nurses: Industry Insights

Experts continue to raise concerns over the shortage of nurses in the healthcare industry. This means plenty of job opportunities will be available for students completing a second-degree BSN program online. With soaring demand for qualified nurses right now, accelerated BSN programs can fill these gaps in the industry quickly due to their fast turnaround times for students gaining their second degrees. Furthermore, this also provides job security, with many opportunities for growth within the industry that would give graduates of second-degree BSN programs online a good salary.

In conclusion, there are multiple compelling reasons to opt for online accelerated BSN programs, such as consistent support, a rising need for nurses in the industry, a great way to leverage skills from previous roles, constant support of programs, and tailored learning to suit the needs of the modern student. It's important to remember that regardless of your educational background, you can qualify for accelerated BSN programs online and have the chance to be part of a rewarding career path and a profession that is in high demand.

Charting Your Course: The Art of Choosing Accreditation in Nursing Education

Embarking on a nursing education journey is a pivotal moment, and the choices made along the way can shape your future career trajectory. One crucial decision that often gets overshadowed by the excitement of entering the world of healthcare is choosing the right accreditation for your nursing education. This article navigates the intricate waters of accreditation, unveiling the art behind this decision-making process.

Understanding Different Accreditation Types

Navigating the realm of nursing education accreditation can feel like wading through an alphabet soup of acronyms and institutions. There are two primary types of accreditations: regional and national. When deciphering what to settle for between regional vs national accreditation nursing, you should know what each entails. For status, regional accrediting bodies grant regional accreditation, while national accreditation is typically awarded by specialized accrediting agencies focused on a particular field.

Each type has nuances, and choosing between them can significantly impact your educational experience and future opportunities. While the regional one is generally more widely recognized and accepted, the national one might be essential for programs with a specific focus, such as nursing specialties or vocational nursing.

The Role of Specialty Accreditation

Beyond the broad strokes of regional and national accreditation, choosing the right accreditation in nursing education extends to specialty accreditation. Many healthcare programs seek to be additionally accredited by specialized bodies focusing on nursing education's unique aspects. For example, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) are two prominent accrediting bodies for nursing programs.

Specialty accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets rigorous standards set by experts in the field, providing students with a more tailored and in-depth educational experience. It's akin to choosing a bespoke suit over off-the-rack attire; it adds a layer of precision and specialization that can enhance your skills and marketability in specific nursing niches.

Assessing the Criteria for Being Accredited

Getting accredited goes beyond checking a box on a list of requirements. It involves meticulously evaluating accreditation criteria and how they align with your personal and professional goals. Consider factors such as faculty qualifications, curriculum rigor, clinical experiences and student support services. Being accredited isn't just a badge of approval; it reflects the quality and depth of your education.

Before getting accredited, dig into the program's standards and assess how well they align with your learning preferences and career aspirations. Are you someone who thrives in hands-on clinical experiences, or do you prefer a program with a strong emphasis on research and theory? By delving into the nitty-gritty of accreditation criteria, you can ensure that your chosen program meets basic standards and resonates with your unique approach to learning and nursing practice.

Future-Proofing Your Career

Being accredited isn't just a static label; it influences your ability to pursue advanced degrees, obtain licensure, and secure employment in competitive healthcare settings. Regional accreditation, in particular, tends to have broader recognition and can facilitate smoother transitions between educational levels, such as moving from an associate degree in nursing to a bachelor's or master's program.

Additionally, the prestige and reputation of the accrediting body can impact how potential employers perceive your qualifications. Employers often recognize accreditation from reputable organizations, enhancing your marketability and opening doors to a wider range of career opportunities. While choosing accreditation may seem like a small brushstroke in the larger canvas of nursing education, its long-term impact on your career cannot be overstated.

The Technological Dimension

Technology is increasingly vital in nursing practice in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. When choosing a nursing education program, consider how well the institution integrates technological advancements into its curriculum. Accredited programs that embrace healthcare informatics, simulation labs with virtual patient scenarios, and telehealth experiences prepare students for the demands of modern healthcare and showcase a commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends. The art of getting accredited extends beyond looking at traditional measures to encompass a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the technological demands of contemporary nursing.

In conclusion, choosing the right accreditation for your nursing education is a multifaceted decision encompassing regional vs. national considerations, specialty accreditation, evaluation of criteria, the technological dimension, and community connections. Each aspect contributes to the artful process of charting your course as a nurse. By carefully weighing these factors, you ensure a solid foundation for your education and set the stage for a dynamic and rewarding career in nursing, where the intersection of accreditation and innovation paves the way for success.