Study Methods and Study Techniques: The MUD Model

MUD Model

The MUD model is a guide to how things can be learnt; the acronym MUD stands for Memory, Understanding and Doing.

Memorising involves association, repetition, review, paraphrasing and self-testing. Don’t memorise a formula without understanding it first. This understanding will help you recreate the formula if your memory fails you.

Understanding is about making sense of information, extracting meaning and relating information to the realities of everyday life. Understanding involves questioning, comparing, contrasting, analysis, synthesis, evaluation, acquiring insight and problem-solving.

Doing involves a practical activity of some sort, with practice sessions to achieve perfection. Confucius said: “I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.” Being actively involved in a learning task engraves it on your memory and helps you understand it. Remember the ‘say and do’ principle — research shows that we remember only 10 percent of what we read, 20 percent of what we see, but a full 90 percent of what we say and do.

Edublox Reading and Learning Clinics offer Studiblox, a course that covers study skills, study methods and study techniques for learners from Grade 4 to 9. Studiblox includes the MUD model, mnemonics, mind mapping, writing summaries, answering exam papers, essay and speech writing, speed reading techniques, and more.