The main thing that you can do to remember things is think about meaning. The summary I usually use is memory loves meaning. If you think about what things mean, that's really going to help them stick with you. And so doing that sort of reorganization of notes, as you said, you don't need to actively be thinking, I am trying to commit this to memory. You're studying. Doing this work of reorganization, you will find that the content is going to stick withYou.
As adults, we need to learn new things all the time.
Yet many of us are relying on the same outdated methods we used as adolescents to do it. Thinks like relentless highlighting and endless rereading.
If so, it may be time to take advantage of the latest research on learning.
That’s where Daniel Willingham comes in. In this interview, we discuss his latest book, Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy. Dan explains when our brains may be working against us. He also shares specific strategies for overriding our brains, so we can convert information into knowledge and understanding.
In a world where learning is more important than ever – for our lives and careers – Dan’s book is just the resource we need.
Episode Links
You’ve Been Studying All Wrong. This Professor Can Help You Outsmart Your Brain
Proof Points: One Expert on What Students Do Wrong
One Thing Teachers Can Do to Help Students Change Their Habits
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
The Team
Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here.
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