How can I read to learn?

A while back, I came across something called SQ3R while I was reading Pragmatic Thinking and Learning: Refactor Your Wetware.   It is an interesting method of reading with the intent to learn.  To date, I have never applied that technique.  That, however, is about to change.  Recently, I've borrowed a buddy's book on a Java clustering technology known as Terracotta.  I'm very interested in the topic and I think I'll get a chance to apply it on some upcoming projects so I would really like to understand the material.  I'm going to attempt and apply SQ3R to the book and see if it helps me to better understand the material.  My plan is to apply the SQ3R steps to each chapter and use this blog as my "notebook".  Wish me luck.