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.

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 Yet many of us are relying on the same outdated methods we used as adolescents to do it.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. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

Ollie Lovell · ERRR079. Daniel Willingham on How to Study This episode we’re speaking with Daniel Willingham. Dan is Professor…

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.

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.