Hey guys, I'm planning on joining a community college after my high school. I've always found history kinda dense but I know it's important. Any idea what history classes might be easier? Also, would love to know any strategies to crack these classes. Thanks in advance!
When it comes to picking an "easy" history class in community college, it will largely depend on your interests and the specific college's course offerings. Despite finding history "dense" as you've mentioned, you might find certain areas of history more engaging than others. For instance, if you are interested in pop culture, a class on 20th-century popular culture history might be easier for you to engage with. Similarly, if you love sports, history of sports in America could be your cup of tea!
Consider attending the first lectures (if possible) or checking out the syllabi online to get a feel for the course material and the course format (like number of assignments, term papers, etc.) before finalizing your decision. Courses that lean heavily on rote memorization might be more challenging than those that encourage analyzing historical events in a more contemporary context.
Strategies to do well in a history class include:
1. Consistent Study: Don't leave everything to the last minute. Consistent and steady studying helps retain and understand the seemingly infinite dates, names and events.
2. Active Learning: Try active learning strategies like drawing timelines, creating flashcards, or participating in study groups. Discussing the lessons with your peers can reinforce the knowledge.
3. Incorporate Multimedia: Many topics in history are covered in films, documentaries, and historical fiction, which can supplement your learning and make it more entertaining.
4. Utilize Office Hours: Don't shy away from using office hours to clarify your doubts. Instructors appreciate students who are proactive and show an interest in their course. They may also provide insights into understanding complex topics, or preparing for exams and papers.
5. Write Clearly and Concisely: Grading in history courses often revolves around written assignments or tests. Being able to express your points clearly and concisely is key. This is a skill built over time, so, practice writing regularly, and seek feedback from your instructor or the resources at your college's writing center.
Remember, the goal shouldn't just be to find an "easy" course - it should be to gain a genuine appreciation for the subject, and to take away skills that can be applicable in other areas of your academic journey and beyond. Good luck!
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