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Learning how to Learn

Barbara A. Oakley, Terrence Joseph Sejnowski, Alistair McConville

247 Pages
2018

Learning how to Learn

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"Learning How to Learn" - Summary

"Learning How to Learn" by Barbara Oakley, Terrence Sejnowski, and Alistair McConville is a transformative guide designed to help students of all ages unlock their full learning potential. Drawing from the popular online course of the same name, this book translates complex neuroscience and cognitive psychology into practical strategies that can be easily applied to improve study habits and master any subject. The authors explain how the brain learns, emphasizing the importance of switching between focused and diffuse modes of thinking, and introduce techniques like "chunking" information for better recall. The book is filled with colorful illustrations, relatable anecdotes, and practical exercises, making learning both engaging and fun. What makes "Learning How to Learn" special is its emphasis on active learning techniques over rote memorization, and its message that anyone, regardless of their background or perceived intelligence, can learn more effectively. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their learning abilities and achieve academic success.

Key Ideas

1

Embrace "desirable difficulties"

The book highlights the importance of challenging oneself, even if it leads to initial struggles. These "desirable difficulties" can lead to deeper and more meaningful learning, as they force the brain to work harder and form stronger neural connections.

2

Use recall and spaced repetition

Regularly retrieving information from memory, rather than simply reviewing notes, strengthens neural connections and improves long-term retention. Spaced repetition, or spreading out study sessions over time, is also emphasized as a powerful technique for enhancing memory and understanding.

3

Harness the power of sleep

Sleep plays a critical role in consolidating memories and improving understanding. The authors explain how getting adequate rest can enhance learning and provide tips for optimizing sleep to maximize its benefits for cognitive performance. <h2>Key Ideas</h2>

1

Embrace "desirable difficulties"

The book highlights the importance of challenging oneself, even if it leads to initial struggles. These "desirable difficulties" can lead to deeper and more meaningful learning, as they force the brain to work harder and form stronger neural connections.

2

Use recall and spaced repetition

Regularly retrieving information from memory, rather than simply reviewing notes, strengthens neural connections and improves long-term retention. Spaced repetition, or spreading out study sessions over time, is also emphasized as a powerful technique for enhancing memory and understanding.

3

Harness the power of sleep

Sleep plays a critical role in consolidating memories and improving understanding. The authors explain how getting adequate rest can enhance learning and provide tips for optimizing sleep to maximize its benefits for cognitive performance.

FAQ's

The main focus of "Learning How to Learn" is to provide practical strategies based on neuroscience and cognitive psychology to help individuals improve their study habits and master any subject more effectively.

"Learning How to Learn" is beneficial for students of all ages, educators, and anyone interested in enhancing their learning abilities and achieving academic success.

Some key techniques discussed include switching between focused and diffuse modes of thinking, chunking information for better recall, using recall and spaced repetition, and optimizing sleep for cognitive performance.

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