Teaching students effective learning skills alongside content is crucial for successful long-term learning outcomes in any subject.
Debunking myths and promoting evidence-based study techniques, such as retrieval practice and spacing, can significantly enhance learning outcomes.
Deep dives
Importance of Teaching Students How to Learn
Teaching students how to learn is crucial because solely focusing on content is not enough. To truly retain and understand the material, students need to develop effective learning skills and techniques. By mastering these skills, students can adapt them to different classes and disciplines, leading to more successful long-term learning outcomes. This approach extends beyond the classroom, benefiting lifelong learners in various areas of interest. Effective teaching should prioritize skills alongside content to empower students with the tools they need to tackle any subject.
Debunking Misconceptions and Ineffective Study Strategies
There are several misconceptions surrounding effective study strategies. One common myth is that if learning is difficult, then it must not be effective. However, many techniques that challenge students and create difficulties actually enhance learning. Conversely, strategies like repeatedly reading or highlighting content may provide a false sense of familiarity but do not contribute significantly to learning or retention. Instead, effective methods like retrieval practice, which involves actively recalling information from memory, lead to improved long-term retention. It is necessary to debunk these myths and promote evidence-based study techniques.
Effective Study Techniques and Learning Skills
Research has identified several strategies that can enhance learning outcomes. One powerful technique is spacing, which involves distributing study sessions over time to allow for better retention and understanding. Interleaving, or mixing different types of problems or content during study sessions, helps students identify problem types and develop better problem-solving skills. Planning and organizing study schedules are also essential for effective learning. Additionally, note-taking serves as a valuable tool for organizing and processing information. Simply rewriting definitions and providing examples can significantly improve understanding and retention.
The Importance of Minimizing Distractions and Sleep
Creating an optimal study environment is crucial for effective learning. Minimizing distractions, such as turning off notifications or finding a quiet study space, helps maintain focus and deepens processing of information. Additionally, getting enough sleep plays a vital role in memory consolidation and problem-solving. Sleep improves memory retention and aids in consolidating information for better long-term recall. Cutting down on distractions and prioritizing adequate sleep can greatly enhance learning outcomes.
From kindergarten through college, very few students are taught a crucial skill set – how, exactly, to study effectively. Regan Gurung, PhD, and John Dunlosky, PhD, authors of “Study like a Champ: The Psychology-based Guide to “Grade A Study Habits,” talk about the biggest studying myths, which study techniques work and which don’t, and why finding studying difficult can be a sign that you’re doing it right. Links Regan Gurung, PhD
