The Good Leadership Podcast Scientifically Proven Strategies for Rapid Learning and Better Recall with Dr. Daniel Willingham & Charles Good | TGLP #239
Today, we are joined by Dr. Daniel Willingham.
Daniel T. Willingham is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Virginia, known for his work applying cognitive psychology to K-16 education. He earned his B.A. from Duke University and his Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from Harvard University. Initially, his research focused on the brain basis of learning and memory, but he later shifted his focus to the practical applications of cognitive science in education. He is the author of several books, including Why Don't Students Like School?, When Can You Trust the Experts?, and The Reading Mind.
In this fascinating conversation, we explore the science behind effective learning and memory. Dr. Willingham reveals why most adults never update their learning strategies from school, the dangerous myths that persist about memory and learning styles, and the evidence-based techniques that actually work.
Key topics include:
Why adults rarely update their learning approaches
Debunking persistent myths about memory, learning styles, and "brain training"
The illusion of knowing and why familiarity doesn't equal true understanding
Why rereading, highlighting, and copying notes are ineffective
The power of retrieval practice
Spacing effects versus cramming
When and how to use mnemonic devices like memory palaces effectively
The fundamental principle of matching study methods to desired outcomes
Whether you're a lifelong learner, educator, or leader looking to enhance your own learning capabilities, Dr. Willingham's research-backed insights will transform how you approach acquiring and retaining new knowledge.
Dr. Daniel Willingham's Books:
"Why Don't Students Like School?" https://www.amazon.com/Why-Dont-Students-Like-School/dp/1119715660
"Outsmart Your Brain" https://www.amazon.com/Outsmart-Your-Brain-Learning-Hard/dp/1982167173
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Website and live online programs: http://ims-online.com
Blog: https://blog.ims-online.com/
Podcast: https://ims-online.com/podcasts/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesgood/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/charlesgood99
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:15) Tool: Dr. Willingham's Journey from Neuroscience to Education
(04:25) Technique: Why Adults Don't Update Their Learning Software
(05:35) Tip: Overcoming Learning Overconfidence and Illusion of Knowing
(09:10) Tool: Debunking Learning Styles and Common Memory Myths
(11:25) Technique: Thinking About Meaning vs Mindless Repetition
(14:45) Tip: Why Retrieval Practice Reigns Supreme for Learning
(16:00) Tool: The Power of Overlearning and Spacing Effects
(20:25) Technique: When and How to Use Mnemonic Devices Effectively
(24:15) Tip: Matching Study Methods to Learning Outcomes
(25:00) Conclusion
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