Cognitive load theory tells us that we have to do our best to make things easier for learners. But Bjork says that 'necessary' (or 'desirable') difficulties are an essential part of the process. Should learning be easy or difficult? Is there a simple way to resolve this apparent contradiction – or is it a matter of trade-offs?   John talks to Stella Collins, one of the 'Brain Ladies' and also Co-founder and Chief Learning Officer of Stellar Labs, based in Belgium. With degrees in Psychology and Human Communication, she is an enthusiast for our growing knowledge of how the brain works. Starting with the issue of difficulty, the discussion ranges widely over the applicability (and otherwise) of brain science to how we can best support learners.   02:38 - Can psychology help us make things easier for learners? 09:25 - ‘Desirable difficulties’ 13:03 - How do you balance desirable difficulties and UX? 17:26 - What drew her to a career in learning? 24:47 - How useful is neuroscience for learning? 32:45 - How applicable are insights from science to practical situations? 36:33 - Sleep and learning   Contact Stella Twitter: @stellacollins LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stellacollins Website: stellarlabs.eu (Company Website)   Contact John Helmer Twitter: @johnhelmer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhelmer/ Website: http://johnhelmerconsulting.com/   Download the new white paper from Learning Pool written by John Helmer & Ben Betts – 'Data & learning: A new common-sense approach' https://learningpool.com/data-learning-a-new-common-sense-approach/