

Daniel Willingham
Professor of psychology at the University of Virginia and author of "Outsmart Your Brain," discussing the science of learning.
Top 10 podcasts with Daniel Willingham
Ranked by the Snipd community

101 snips
Apr 13, 2020 • 1h 12min
85. Why Don't Students Like School? by Daniel Willingham
Daniel Willingham is a cognitive scientist who specialises in the study of how people read. In this book, he brings forward nine principles of cognitive science that both have a substantial evidence base and are relevant to teachers. Although he wanted there to be ten, nine is all that he could find that would match those criteria. He names the chapters after questions that they answer rather than the principles that they expound, as this would pique the readers' interest more and make them more likely to remember the principles (he is a cognitive scientist after all). The questions (and answers, paraphrased) are as follows: Why don't students like school? (because people are not designed to think, but to not think in most situations) How can I teach students the skills they need when standardised tests require only facts? (factual knowledge must precede skill) Why do students remember everything on TV and forget everything I say? (the importance of repetition, emotion, and stories) Why is it so hard for students to understand abstract ideas? (because we understand things in terms of what we already know, and what we already know is mostly concrete) Is drilling worth it? (practice is essential) What's the secret to getting students to think like real mathematicians, scientists, and historians? (don't - experts are fundamentally different from novices) How should I adjust my teaching for different types of learners? (learning styles are a myth) How can I help slow learners? (hard work can improve intelligence and beliefs about intelligence matter, but some difference is genetic) What about my mind? (teaching is a skill like any other) When I first read the book, there were a number of truths that shattered my pre-existing notions, which was scary but beneficial for me. I hope it helps you as much as it helped me. Enjoy the episode.

25 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 44min
Unlocking reading: Comprehension strategies vs. knowledge building, with Daniel Willingham, Ph.D.
Daniel Willingham, Ph.D., a psychology professor at the University of Virginia and author of 'The Reading Mind,' discusses the crucial role of knowledge in reading comprehension. He dives into the limitations of comprehension strategies and emphasizes the importance of background knowledge for better text engagement. Willingham highlights the delicate balance between phonics and knowledge-rich curricula and explores how both are vital for critical thinking. Lastly, he offers insightful strategies to enhance literacy outcomes through well-rounded educational approaches.

23 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 48min
How to Learn Things Faster & How to Have an Argument-Free Relationship - SYSK Choice
Daniel Willingham, a psychology professor at the University of Virginia, shares insights on how to enhance learning efficiency and retention through genuine interest and positive mindset. He challenges common memorization techniques while promoting spaced learning. Meanwhile, psychotherapist Linda Bloom introduces strategies for maintaining argument-free relationships, emphasizing clear communication and emotional management. Together, they reveal the significance of overcoming traditional conflict resolution methods to foster deeper connections and understanding.

22 snips
Feb 13, 2023 • 52min
CM 233: Daniel Willingham on Smarter Ways to Learn
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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11 snips
Jun 1, 2023 • 1h 18min
ERRR #079. Daniel Willingham on How to Study
Ollie Lovell · ERRR079. Daniel Willingham on How to Study This episode we’re speaking with Daniel Willingham. Dan is Professor…

7 snips
Sep 8, 2023 • 58min
Ep 16. Applying cognitive science to education with Daniel Willingham
Cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Daniel Willingham shares strategies from his book on applying cognitive science to education. Topics include debunking learning styles, retrieval practice, helping students solve math problems, using notes effectively, and overcoming setbacks.

Aug 27, 2025 • 26min
How to Not Raise an iPad Baby
Join neuroscientist Maryanne Wolf, a champion for children’s literacy, and psychology professor Daniel Willingham as they tackle the pressing issue of technology's impact on young minds. They explore how screen time is affecting attention spans and critical thinking skills in children. The experts discuss the importance of cultivating deep reading habits to enhance cognitive development and empathy. They also highlight the cultural shifts in literacy due to digital distractions, leaving listeners with actionable strategies for fostering healthier tech habits in kids.

Sep 9, 2024 • 54min
You 2.0: Remember More, Forget Less
Cognitive scientist Daniel Willingham delves into the mysteries of memory, revealing how it functions and why it often eludes us. He shares personal anecdotes about common memory lapses, including the notorious struggle with forgotten passwords. Willingham emphasizes the difference between true retention and mere familiarity, advocating for effective memorization techniques like overlearning. The conversation also highlights the role of storytelling and engagement in enhancing memory retention, offering listeners actionable strategies to remember more and forget less.

Apr 17, 2023 • 50min
Remember More, Forget Less
Daniel Willingham, a cognitive scientist, dives deep into the fascinating world of memory. He discusses how memory functions and the common reasons it fails us, including the illusion of knowledge. Willingham explores effective strategies for retaining information, emphasizing the power of storytelling and engagement. He highlights the difference between passive and active learning, and provides practical techniques to enhance memory recall. With relatable anecdotes, he reveals how understanding memory can improve our everyday lives.

Sep 23, 2022 • 54min
#682 Daniel Willingham: Why Don't Students Like School?
Daniel Willingham, cognitive scientist and author of 'Why Don't Students Like School?', discusses fascinating topics in this episode. He explains why the brain relies on memory instead of thinking and why students need factual knowledge alongside critical thinking skills. The importance of curiosity in learning, the impact of individual differences in intelligence and learning styles, and the influence of technology on education are also explored.