Only provide final answers to homework problems. Cover difficult examples in class.

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Students often rely on reading solutions to problems to understand how to solve them, but this method can be ineffective. They falsely believe that by reading solutions, they have learned how to do the problems. However, when tested, they struggle to apply their knowledge. This raises the question of why this method does not work and why students continue to think it does.

In Episode 16, Anna Stokke talks to cognitive psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Daniel Willingham. Dan shares some of the strategies in his latest book, "Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning Is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy."

They begin by addressing the learning styles myth. They discuss what constitutes retrieval practice in a math context and why retrieval practice is more effective than simply reading. They talk about how to help students recognize and solve variations in math problems, how to get students to use notes effectively, and distractions that hinder learning, such as cell phones and multitasking. He also offers some advice for when students face setbacks. Some of the discussion is geared towards high school or post-secondary students and their instructors, but the conversation will be useful and interesting for anyone who teaches or is interested in human learning.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-16-transcript

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.annastokke.com/ep-16-resources

MUSIC

Intro and Outro: Coma Media – Catch it

Podington Bear - Kitten

Blue Dot Sessions – Tarte Tatin, Coulis Coulis, Balti, Are We Loose Yet, Gaena

Website: www.annastokke.com

Twitter: @rastokke

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