A pomodoro is a tomato. Such a simple object to reflect what is essentially distilled brilliance. Back in the 1980’s Francesco Cirillo developed a technique for time management structured around maximizing mental exertion by controlling the amount of time the mind is exerted. Cirillo’s technique was to work for 25 minutes and take a 5 minute break. Do this two (wikipedia says 4, but frak that) times in a row before taking an extended (30 minute) break. This helps the mind stay fresh and allows you to focus on a given task longer.
I am testing this method as I storm through my latest draft. It works. Not only that, but the method encourages me to work harder, because I know I need to get every thought out before that break, because I want to feel like I accomplished something going into my next, well, tomato.
There are many software apps designed around time management, but you can use something as simple as a tomato or egg timer. I use an app called 30/30 when possible. Otherwise I use a clock and keep time in my head. The point is to be aware of the end time, but not check the clock constantly while working. You also need to clear out any other distractions for the 25 minutes, because this is what is going to help you make the most of that time.
I want to see if I can apply this to class structure this semester. 75 minutes is a long time and the 8 week class meets for twice that amount daily. In these classes a pomodoro structure could allow us to really hone in on content and try to discern meaning out of what we are doing, because we spend valuable time accessing our critical thinking mechanisms as opposed to fading as the end nears.
I’m looking forward to what comes next.