According to the National Survey of Student Engagement, the amount of time that students spend studying does not meet professors’ expectations.

The survey revealed that the average full-time college student spends approximately 15 hours studying per week. Students who averaged the most studying time out of those surveyed were senior engineering majors who averaged about 19 hours per week.

Faculty expectations for study time by field corresponded to what students reported; however, there were some discrepancies. According to the survey, social sciences students reported studying for four hours fewer than what faculty recommended.

Some professors say that even though students do study, they may not be studying in a way that is most effective.

“Students are probably spending a lot of their study time using inefficient study techniques,” said Andrea Graytock, an Otterbein senior lecturer in biology and earth science.

Graytock suggested that students should examine their own learning style and figure out how their brain processes information. She suggested that students put away their cellphones, movies and technology while studying and use delayed gratification techniques by rewarding themselves after completing an assignment. She also mentioned that students should relocate to avoid distractions.

“(Students) are not spending enough quality time studying. There are too many distractions today with Facebook and constant texts from friends,” said Matthew McMullen, an Otterbein mathematics professor.

Penny Sens, the administrative assistant of the Academic Support Center, recommended that students study between one and a half to two hours for every one hour in class and seek help when needed. “Students need to ask for help if they don’t understand,” Sens said.

Some students attribute their lack of time studying to their involvement in other activities.

“Sports and pledging (were) a distraction from studying,” said Casey Goad, a sophomore sports management major.

Ellie Hoffman, a sophomore business major, said she does not study enough because she is involved with work, school and her boyfriend. “To be honest, it makes (more) sense to work and have money than be an overachiever,” she said.

The math lab, the writing center, tutoring and the Academic Support Center are available to provide assistance. Students can also meet individually with their professors or advisers. Otterbein University has many resources for students to get additional help with classes.