Learning with Index Cards
Updated: Apr 13
Index cards are a simple tool that can be used to organize information and facilitate learning. In this post, we will discuss the use of index cards using the three steps of the LIFESMART learning process below.
LIFESMART Learning Process
The LIFESMART Learning Process consists of the three step shown below. Each of these steps consists of smaller steps.
Step 1. Divide lesson into small, movable chunks.
· Choose the right tool
· Create movable chunks using the selected tool.
Step 2. Create a micro-map.
· Organize micro-maps with cognitive jigs.
· Add brief explanations in micro-map.
· Compile micro-maps.
· Curate micro-maps.
Step 3. Re-build and talk with micro-map.
· Memorize key ideas in micro-map
· Memorize explanations for ideas in each micro-map.
· Present/ write with micro-maps
How can we use index cards effectively?
1. Divide lesson into small, movable chunks.
It is easy to organize lessons into small, movable chunks with index cards. However, we have to consider the following question:
- How much information should be included on each index card?
Ananth’s writing teacher used one index card for each new concept. This approach was helpful for learning individual concepts. However, the number of index cards grew rapidly and we found it difficult to keep track of it and use it. Our current approach is to use one index card for a list of few items.
- Choose the right tools
Index cards can be integrated with other tools.
- We will integrate index cards and OneNote. The pages on OneNote will be organized in a way that is consistent with the index cards. We can also place the cards on a larger surface and talk about how the chunks are related to each other.
- Create movable chunks using the selected tool.
It is easy to create movable chunks with index cards. These chunks can be small amounts of texts, lists, diagrams, pictures, and tables
2. Create a micro-map.
It is easy to create a micro-map by placing cards on a table, whiteboard or other surfaces.
- Add brief explanations in micro-map.
One key advantage of index cards is that we can include concepts and explanations as needed to create chunks of information. We will record concepts and a few keywords on index cards. Details will only be recorded in OneNote.
- Extend micro-maps with cognitive jigs.
We can easily expand index cards with cognitive jigs. If we place the cards on a whiteboard, we can show relationships (barbells). Building with index cards and jigs will be discussed in future blog posts.
- Compile micro-maps.
Index cards can be stored in boxes. We number index cards to organize them in a box. We also use different color cards for different subjects.
3. Re-build and talk about micro-map
Index cards facilitated re-build and talk in many ways. Chunks of information on index cards can be reused in different ways. Information can be easily re-arranged and modified.
- Memorize micro-map
Organizing information in small chunks in index cards facilitates memorization
- Memorize explanations for ideas in each micro-map.
Concepts and keywords will be used to memorize explanations.
- Present/ write with micro-maps
Index cards can be used to organize presentation/ writing. Small chunks of information in the cards make it easier for learners to communicate their ideas.
- Curate micro-maps, narrations, and other learning resources.
We can also curate cards in a different box after they are memorized. At this point, the cards may not be used daily. The cards can be stored in a different box and reviewed periodically as needed.
