Tips For Learning Better
Tips For Learning Better
Two fundamentally different modes of thinking • Focused Mode: when we concentrate intently on something and we use our previous neural connections to learn it, then we are in Focused Mode of thinking.
• Diffuse Mode: when we are learning new ideas, approaches or concepts that we have not thought of them before, then we need to use Diffuse Mode of thinking and make new neural connections along our pathway of learning.
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Some useful tips: • Metaphors (analogies) provide powerful techniques for learning. I myself as a chemistry teacher can use more of them for teaching abstract concepts of chemistry. • With new optical techniques for imaging brain, we can see when old synapses disappear, new synapses are formed even after maturing. We should know that it’s never too late to learn something new. Our brain says “I’m always ready”.
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• Sleep to make it easier to learn new things and solve problems. I learned that during sleep our mind can go into Diffuse mode and make new neural patterns and also strengthen just formed neural connections.
• The Pomodoro Technique: set a timer to 25 minutes , turn off all interruptions, then focus and give yourself a little reward when you are done. I myself have used this technique in some tasks recently, like learning French, preparing lesson plans for my chemistry classes and even exercising for my body fitness.
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• Working Memory: It relates to what we are immediately and consciously processing in our mind. It holds only about four chunks of information. • Long Term Memory: It is like a storage warehouse. It is distributed over a big area of the brain. It has room for billions of items. • When we want to move new information from working memory to long term memory, it takes Time and Practice. To help with this process, we can use Spaced Repetition Technique, extending our practice over several days.
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• Recalling Technique: Research shows that when we retrieve knowledge, this process enhances deep learning. I used to think differently but I may use it more specially in learning new languages. • Test yourself on whatever you are learning. Recalling technique actually does this for you. It allows you to see whether or not you really grasped the ideas.
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Two fundamentally different modes of thinking • Focused Mode: when we concentrate intently on something and we use our previous neural connections to learn it, then we are in Focused Mode of thinking.
• Diffuse Mode: when we are learning new ideas, approaches or concepts that we have not thought of them before, then we need to use Diffuse Mode of thinking and make new neural connections along our pathway of learning.
2
Some useful tips: • Metaphors (analogies) provide powerful techniques for learning. I myself as a chemistry teacher can use more of them for teaching abstract concepts of chemistry. • With new optical techniques for imaging brain, we can see when old synapses disappear, new synapses are formed even after maturing. We should know that it’s never too late to learn something new. Our brain says “I’m always ready”.
3
• Sleep to make it easier to learn new things and solve problems. I learned that during sleep our mind can go into Diffuse mode and make new neural patterns and also strengthen just formed neural connections.
• The Pomodoro Technique: set a timer to 25 minutes , turn off all interruptions, then focus and give yourself a little reward when you are done. I myself have used this technique in some tasks recently, like learning French, preparing lesson plans for my chemistry classes and even exercising for my body fitness.
4
• Working Memory: It relates to what we are immediately and consciously processing in our mind. It holds only about four chunks of information. • Long Term Memory: It is like a storage warehouse. It is distributed over a big area of the brain. It has room for billions of items. • When we want to move new information from working memory to long term memory, it takes Time and Practice. To help with this process, we can use Spaced Repetition Technique, extending our practice over several days.
5
• Recalling Technique: Research shows that when we retrieve knowledge, this process enhances deep learning. I used to think differently but I may use it more specially in learning new languages. • Test yourself on whatever you are learning. Recalling technique actually does this for you. It allows you to see whether or not you really grasped the ideas.
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