Adam Mastroianni on Learning and Mostly Forgetting
Oct 9, 2023
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In this engaging discussion, Adam Mastroianni, a psychologist and author of Experimental History, challenges conventional views on learning and memory. He reveals how little we retain from traditional education, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and 'vibes' in shaping our understanding. Personal anecdotes highlight stark differences between dull and engaging classes. Mastroianni argues for teaching methods that prioritize meaningful experiences over rote memorization, urging a fresh approach to education that fosters critical thinking.
Emotions, meanings, and values shape our knowledge and identity, not just facts and details.
Creating a learning environment that encourages exploration and open-mindedness leads to more meaningful and lasting learning outcomes.
Vibes and feelings in conversations have a profound impact, going beyond knowledge and fostering deeper connections.
Deep dives
The problem of forgetting most of what we learn
Many studies have shown that a significant portion of what we learn is forgotten over time. People often struggle to remember facts and details from their education, even shortly after completing a course or program. This is highlighted by personal examples, such as the difficulty of recalling specific college classes or the inability to remember facts from past lectures or lessons. The limitations of traditional learning methods, which prioritize memorization and the retention of knowledge, are questioned.
The importance of experiences and vibes
The podcast episode emphasizes the significance of experiences and vibes in the learning process. While explicit knowledge and facts may be easily forgotten, the memories and feelings associated with certain experiences tend to endure. These experiences create a deeper understanding and shape perspectives, often leaving a lasting impact. The importance of embracing the process of learning and allowing oneself to struggle and feel vulnerable is highlighted. Encouraging an environment of exploration, curiosity, and open-mindedness, rather than focusing solely on memorization and test performance, can lead to more meaningful and lasting learning outcomes.
Reevaluating evaluation and the role of credentials
The podcast questions the traditional methods of evaluating knowledge and the role of credentials in education. The current emphasis on academic performance and standardized testing often fails to capture the true understanding and abilities of individuals. The focus on obtaining credentials, rather than fostering genuine curiosity and understanding, perpetuates a system that prioritizes superficial knowledge over deeper learning. The suggestion is made to create alternative approaches to evaluation that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of knowledge in practical settings. This reevaluation of evaluation methods can help shift the focus from mere credentialing to genuine learning and development.
The Power of Vibes and Feeling in Conversations
Vibes and feelings play a crucial role in conversations and how we remember them. Most memorable conversations are not about the knowledge gained, but rather about the emotional connection with another person. These profound conversations go beyond the content and create a sense of intimacy. The way a conversation makes us feel is a huge part of our lives that extends beyond learning. Understanding the significance of vibes and feelings can enhance the quality of our conversations and relationships.
The Importance of Storytelling and Unintended Consequences
Storytelling and the use of parables, jokes, and anecdotes have a lasting impact on our memory and understanding of complex concepts. Stories convey emotions and experiences that resonate with us. They help us remember important lessons, such as the presence of unintended consequences in well-intentioned actions. Despite their effectiveness, stories are often undervalued and brushed aside in academic settings. Incorporating storytelling into education and conversations can provide a more engaging and memorable learning experience.
How much do we remember of what we learn in school or from conversation? Psychologist Adam Mastroianni says: from little to nothing much. What do our brains retain? Mastroianni argues that often it's a mix of emotions, meanings, and values that end up shaping who we are, what Mastroianni calls "vibes." Listen as he and EconTalk's Russ Roberts discuss the role of vibes in knowledge acquisition and the implications for how we teach, learn, and speak to those around us.
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