Tools to Support Learning: Simple Ways to Study Smarter, Not Harder
Introduction: You Don’t Have to Do It All On Your Own Studying as an adult can feel like a solo
How to Use Your Phone or Device to Support Your Study – Not Distract You
Introduction: The Device in Your Pocket Can Be Your Best Study Tool
Phones, tablets, and laptops often get blamed for distraction – and yes, they can pull your focus away. But they can also become powerful study companions if you learn to use them on purpose, rather than by habit.
This article will help you turn your device into a tool that supports your learning, keeps you organised, and helps you stay on track – without falling into endless scrolling or distraction traps.
Why Phones and Tablets Are Underrated Learning Tools
Why Phones and Tablets Are Underrated Learning Tools
- Access your learning platform or online assessments
- Watch training videos or recorded sessions
- Use timers, checklists, and reminders
- Type or voice-record short notes
- Read documents, flashcards or emails on the go
- Listen to content instead of reading it (using screen readers)
You don’t need to sit at a desk for hours – if used wisely, your device lets you study anywhere, in short focused sessions.
Turn Off the Distractions First
Before using your phone or device for study, set it up for focus:
- Switch off unnecessary notifications
- Use “Do Not Disturb” mode during study time
- Move social media apps off your home screen
- Use website blockers (like FocusMe or Freedom) to limit temptation
- Try a Focus Mode if your device has it (Android, iPhone, Windows and Mac all have built-in options)
Distraction isn’t a character flaw – it’s a design feature. You just need to reclaim control of your device.
Smart Ways to Use Your Phone or Device for Study
- Time Management
- Use Google Calendar, Outlook, or built-in reminders to plan sessions
- Try Pomodoro timers like Focus Keeper or Flora
- Set alarms for key deadlines or revision blocks
- Notetaking and Quick Capture
- Use OneNote, Google Keep, or Apple Notes for quick thoughts
- Record audio messages to yourself if you’re walking or driving
- Use voice typing in Google Docs or Word for hands-free writing
- Studying On the Go
- Listen to course-related podcasts or videos
- Save documents to your device for offline review
- Use flashcard apps like Quizlet to revise in short bursts
- Accessibility Tools
- Use built-in screen readers or read-aloud functions to hear your notes
- Use speech-to-text for assessments, planning or journaling
- Adjust font size, contrast or text spacing if you find reading difficult
Set Clear Study Boundaries on Your Device
It’s not just about how you use your phone – it’s also about when and why.
Try this:
Try this:
- Study in 25–30 minute blocks, then reward yourself with a short scroll
- Use a checklist app to tick off each mini-task
- Don’t study on the same apps where you socialise - separate work and play
When you use your phone intentionally, it supports your success instead of stealing your attention.
Taking Control of Your Device
Phones and devices can either help you or distract you – and the difference lies in how you use them. With a few small changes, you can turn your everyday tech into a powerful learning tool that fits your routine, supports your focus, and keeps you on track.
At Asset College, we encourage learners to embrace technology as a support – not a shortcut, and not a barrier. Your phone is already in your pocket. Why not make it work for you?
Tools to Support Learning: Article Series
Using AI to Support Your Learning: What’s Helpful, What’s Not
Introduction: AI Is a Tool – Not a Shortcut You’ve probably heard of AI tools like ChatGPT, Grammarly, or voice
Top Free Tools to Help You Study Smarter
Introduction: You Don’t Need to Spend Money to Study Well You don’t need expensive software or fancy equipment to succeed
How to Use Your Phone or Device to Support Your Study – Not Distract You
Introduction: The Device in Your Pocket Can Be Your Best Study Tool Phones, tablets, and laptops often get blamed for
Getting the Most Out of Online Learning Tools (Even If You’re Not Tech-Savvy)
Introduction: You Don’t Need to Be an Expert – Just Willing to Learn If you’re not confident using technology, you’re
Simple Study Habits That Make a Big Difference
Introduction: It’s Not Just What You Study – It’s How You Study Success in training isn’t just about intelligence, memory,