Minha apresentação sobre parte dos tópicos cobertos no curso *Learning how to Learn* da _Coursera_, feita para um dos Assignments.
https://class.coursera.org/learning-003
The document discusses various techniques for effective learning, including using both focused and diffuse thinking modes, interleaving topics, avoiding procrastination, using the Pomodoro technique, getting enough sleep, exercising, forming memory chunks, avoiding overconfidence, and studying with friends. Some key recommendations are to space out learning over time instead of cramming, take breaks to allow the diffuse thinking mode to kick in, and catch blind spots by explaining concepts to others.
- The document discusses techniques for effective learning based on neuroscience principles. It introduces concepts like focused vs diffuse thinking modes, chunking information, the role of emotions and motivation, and techniques like interleaving topics and deliberate practice.
- Key ideas that were discussed include how the brain's thinking modes support different types of learning, how to form "chunks" of information that are easier for the brain to recall, and how emotions and motivators like dopamine impact our ability to learn.
- The goal is to provide a framework to reduce frustration and increase understanding during learning.
Our brain has two modes of thinking - focused and diffuse - that help with learning in different ways. Focused mode is for concentrating on a subject, while diffuse mode occurs when relaxed and allows for creative insights. To learn effectively, one must alternate between these modes, using focused time to study new concepts and diffuse time like sleep to process them. Another important learning technique is chunking, which involves breaking information into smaller, memorable pieces. Procrastination can be addressed using the Pomodoro technique of focused study sessions with breaks, focusing on the process rather than the product, and rewarding oneself upon completion of tasks.
This document provides tips and strategies for effective learning. It discusses the focused and diffuse modes of thinking, the concept of chunking information, and strategies like the Pomodoro technique. Procrastination is addressed, noting how the brain reacts to unpleasant tasks. Good strategies include spacing out repetition, testing yourself, taking breaks, and getting enough sleep. Bad strategies include passive rereading, letting highlights overwhelm you, waiting until the last minute, and not getting help to clear up confusion. The goal is to understand how the brain learns and optimize strategies accordingly.
1. The document discusses different modes of thinking - focused and diffuse. Focused thinking involves familiar topics while diffuse thinking is for solving new problems and gaining new perspectives.
2. It emphasizes the importance of practice and repetition for learning through forming neural connections, as well as spacing out learning over time rather than cramming.
3. Procrastination should be avoided as it prevents the formation of strong neural structures for learning; the Pomodoro technique can help address procrastination.
This document discusses effective study techniques for college students. It recommends using focused and diffused modes of learning. In focused mode, students should read textbooks multiple times, take detailed notes in class, and review them shortly after. In diffused mode, students allow their mind to process the information subconsciously by taking breaks between study sessions. The document also stresses the importance of practicing retrieval of information through techniques like flashcards and self-testing to commit concepts to long-term memory through chunk formation and spaced repetition. Regularly alternating between focused study and diffused relaxation modes can help students learn and retain information more effectively.
Minha apresentação sobre parte dos tópicos cobertos no curso *Learning how to Learn* da _Coursera_, feita para um dos Assignments.
https://class.coursera.org/learning-003
The document discusses various techniques for effective learning, including using both focused and diffuse thinking modes, interleaving topics, avoiding procrastination, using the Pomodoro technique, getting enough sleep, exercising, forming memory chunks, avoiding overconfidence, and studying with friends. Some key recommendations are to space out learning over time instead of cramming, take breaks to allow the diffuse thinking mode to kick in, and catch blind spots by explaining concepts to others.
- The document discusses techniques for effective learning based on neuroscience principles. It introduces concepts like focused vs diffuse thinking modes, chunking information, the role of emotions and motivation, and techniques like interleaving topics and deliberate practice.
- Key ideas that were discussed include how the brain's thinking modes support different types of learning, how to form "chunks" of information that are easier for the brain to recall, and how emotions and motivators like dopamine impact our ability to learn.
- The goal is to provide a framework to reduce frustration and increase understanding during learning.
Our brain has two modes of thinking - focused and diffuse - that help with learning in different ways. Focused mode is for concentrating on a subject, while diffuse mode occurs when relaxed and allows for creative insights. To learn effectively, one must alternate between these modes, using focused time to study new concepts and diffuse time like sleep to process them. Another important learning technique is chunking, which involves breaking information into smaller, memorable pieces. Procrastination can be addressed using the Pomodoro technique of focused study sessions with breaks, focusing on the process rather than the product, and rewarding oneself upon completion of tasks.
This document provides tips and strategies for effective learning. It discusses the focused and diffuse modes of thinking, the concept of chunking information, and strategies like the Pomodoro technique. Procrastination is addressed, noting how the brain reacts to unpleasant tasks. Good strategies include spacing out repetition, testing yourself, taking breaks, and getting enough sleep. Bad strategies include passive rereading, letting highlights overwhelm you, waiting until the last minute, and not getting help to clear up confusion. The goal is to understand how the brain learns and optimize strategies accordingly.
1. The document discusses different modes of thinking - focused and diffuse. Focused thinking involves familiar topics while diffuse thinking is for solving new problems and gaining new perspectives.
2. It emphasizes the importance of practice and repetition for learning through forming neural connections, as well as spacing out learning over time rather than cramming.
3. Procrastination should be avoided as it prevents the formation of strong neural structures for learning; the Pomodoro technique can help address procrastination.
This document discusses effective study techniques for college students. It recommends using focused and diffused modes of learning. In focused mode, students should read textbooks multiple times, take detailed notes in class, and review them shortly after. In diffused mode, students allow their mind to process the information subconsciously by taking breaks between study sessions. The document also stresses the importance of practicing retrieval of information through techniques like flashcards and self-testing to commit concepts to long-term memory through chunk formation and spaced repetition. Regularly alternating between focused study and diffused relaxation modes can help students learn and retain information more effectively.
This document discusses different techniques for improving memory and revising for exams. It explains that memory involves four stages and can be improved by consciously moving through each stage. It then provides details on several revision techniques including active vs passive revision, overlearning, breaking tasks down, look-cover-write-check, spaced repetition, and using past papers. The key message is that there is no single best method and finding what works best for the individual is important.
Studying tips your guide to studying smartChloe Cheney
Learn how to study more effectively with our expert guide. You'll score better in your exams when you study smartly by enhancing your learning performance.
Overview
•The presentation will tackle on how you can take control of your learning habits
•Provide learning exercises that will aid your learning process
•Discuss the diffuse and focused mode of thinking and when to use them
•Illustration of the habit loop to identify how you can relate and modify it to suit your learning
•Benefits of guilt free sleeping and napping at work
•Defeat the inner procrastinator inside of us
This document provides information about memory techniques. It begins by defining short-term and long-term memory, and provides tips for improving memory such as paying attention, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, avoiding negative beliefs, and using specific memory techniques. It then discusses mind mapping as a creative memory aid technique. Finally, it includes a learning styles self-assessment questionnaire.
This document discusses different modes of thinking and how to improve learning and memory. It explains that mixing focused and diffuse thinking is best for creativity. Memory is improved through repetition and using sensory and spatial associations. Procrastination occurs when the brain avoids difficult or unpleasant tasks, but it can be overcome using techniques like Pomodoro, focusing on processes not products, and developing helpful habits.
This document provides tips for making college learning easier through effective study techniques. It recommends reading textbooks multiple times to fully understand and retain the material. Notes should be reviewed the same day as lectures to form "chunks" of knowledge through focused attention, understanding, and practice. Regular practice with techniques like flashcards and the Pomodoro method can help commit information to long-term memory. It's also important to leave time for "diffused mode" activities after study to allow the unconscious mind to process lessons before reviewing again later. Spacing out review over time through techniques like deliberate practice leads to better retention than cramming.
Learning How to Learn Assignment #2: Memory, Procrastination and Related Key ...sashasally
The document discusses memory and techniques for committing information to long-term memory. It explains that memory consists of short-term and long-term portions. Short-term memory is temporary while long-term memory stores information for the long run. Techniques like using cue cards, mnemonics, and visual representations can help transfer information to long-term memory. Spacing out study periods also aids long-term retention by giving the brain time to process information. Overcoming procrastination through limiting distractions and goal-setting is important for effective learning.
This document provides tips for improving learning and overcoming procrastination. It recommends using a planner, committing to daily routines and tasks, and rewarding yourself for completing work to tackle procrastination. The Pomodoro technique of focusing for 25 minutes and then taking a break is also suggested. When learning, people should chunk information into basic ideas, practice recalling content in different locations, and test themselves on the material. The document outlines 10 rules for good studying, including recalling information without notes, testing yourself frequently, spacing out repetition over time, and using explanatory questions and analogies when struggling with concepts.
The document outlines ten rules for good studying and ten rules for bad studying. The rules for good studying include using recall after reading, testing yourself frequently, spacing out repetition over time, taking breaks when frustrated, focusing for 25 minutes at a time, and doing the hardest work first. The rules for bad studying are passive rereading, over-highlighting, waiting until the last minute, being constantly distracted, and not getting enough sleep.
The document discusses various techniques for effective learning. It covers modes of thinking like focused thinking which concentrates on the task at hand versus diffuse thinking which allows the mind to wander and make connections. It also discusses procrastination and provides tips to overcome it like setting to-do lists and limiting distractions. Regarding memory, it explains how repetition and spaced practice can strengthen long-term memory versus short-term memory which decays quickly. Finally, it offers tips for learning efficiently such as chunking information, interleaving topics, avoiding illusions of competence, and not falling for the Einstellung effect of relying on past solutions too much.
5 principles for better learning freely taken from a coursera moo: Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help
you master tough subjects
by Dr. Barbara Oakley, Dr. Terrence Sejnowski
Studying involves both learning and remembering information. There are many memory techniques that can be used to improve recall, including organizing information, associating new ideas with prior knowledge, using visualizations and recitation, and spacing out review sessions over time. Effective memorization relies on integrating information and regular practice recalling it.
1. Learning requires developing effective methodologies and habits to optimize how the brain acquires knowledge. While focused, intensive work is important, it is equally important to allow for sufficient rest and breaks to allow knowledge to transfer to long-term memory.
2. Both focused, deep work on a topic as well as more diffuse, creative thinking are important for learning. Taking breaks between intensive study sessions allows the brain to make new connections and see things from different perspectives.
3. Sleep is essential for the brain to consolidate learning, remove toxins, and form new neural connections. Procrastination can be addressed by starting with less appealing tasks, planning the next day's schedule before bed, and actively participating in discussions rather than
Mindfulness Workshop – A Grassroots Approach to Improving Self/Tech BalanceShihui Kong
This workshop is an experiment born out of my MA thesis at Hyper Island. Most of the exercises in the workshop contain experimental frameworks, created out of my synthesis of online research. I would love to receive any feedback that can help refine the workshop further. :)
Inspiration & Credits:
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Cactus app
Tiny Spells newsletter
A conversation with Samantha
Hyper Island Toolkit
Learning new skills in one month can be achieved through effective learning techniques backed by science. These include saying information out loud to improve memory recall, taking handwritten notes which enhances comprehension, and spacing out study sessions over time which makes information easier to retain. Testing yourself frequently, modifying your practice methods, exercising regularly, sleeping more, interleaving different subject learning, teaching others, and relating new knowledge to existing knowledge are other effective strategies supported by research to accelerate learning.
This document discusses the power of the mind and how to maximize its potential. It explains that the mind is composed of attention, mental images, and thoughts, which have energy and can affect reality. It provides 10 ways to use mind power, such as being conscious of thoughts, having positive sources of influence, and speaking of success in the present. It discusses the subconscious mind, which makes up 95% of brain power and handles automatic functions. Various methods are presented for strengthening the mind through practices like meditation, visualization, affirmations, gratitude, and learning from failures.
The document provides an outline of a classroom session on understanding habits. It includes the following key points:
1. The session discusses habits, how they are formed and broken, strategies for breaking bad habits and forming good ones, and creating plans.
2. Students complete workbook activities covering habits, benefits and disadvantages, and strategies for breaking and forming habits using mindfulness and visualization.
3. The session concludes with discussing homework on creating plans to break a bad habit and form a good one, and the benefits of sharing plans with others.
Design Your Habits is an online class that uses the principles and tools of Behavior Design to guide you through a practical project: designing a sustainable daily habit to improve your productivity, creativity, health, or wellbeing.
-Enroll for free at http://designyourhabits.co
-Sign up to receive my Curated Habit Resources at http://fortelabs.co/blog
-Follow me on Twitter @fortelabs
-Watch the first 4 lessons on YouTube (http://bit.ly/1uJ8v4y)
-Watch a highlight reel of this class being delivered live (http://bit.ly/1ABUlVH)
Sources and attribution at http://www.fortelabs.co/design-your-habits-sources.
हिंदी वर्णमाला पीपीटी, hindi alphabet PPT presentation, hindi varnamala PPT, Hindi Varnamala pdf, हिंदी स्वर, हिंदी व्यंजन, sikhiye hindi varnmala, dr. mulla adam ali, hindi language and literature, hindi alphabet with drawing, hindi alphabet pdf, hindi varnamala for childrens, hindi language, hindi varnamala practice for kids, https://www.drmullaadamali.com
How to Build a Module in Odoo 17 Using the Scaffold MethodCeline George
Odoo provides an option for creating a module by using a single line command. By using this command the user can make a whole structure of a module. It is very easy for a beginner to make a module. There is no need to make each file manually. This slide will show how to create a module using the scaffold method.
This document discusses different techniques for improving memory and revising for exams. It explains that memory involves four stages and can be improved by consciously moving through each stage. It then provides details on several revision techniques including active vs passive revision, overlearning, breaking tasks down, look-cover-write-check, spaced repetition, and using past papers. The key message is that there is no single best method and finding what works best for the individual is important.
Studying tips your guide to studying smartChloe Cheney
Learn how to study more effectively with our expert guide. You'll score better in your exams when you study smartly by enhancing your learning performance.
Overview
•The presentation will tackle on how you can take control of your learning habits
•Provide learning exercises that will aid your learning process
•Discuss the diffuse and focused mode of thinking and when to use them
•Illustration of the habit loop to identify how you can relate and modify it to suit your learning
•Benefits of guilt free sleeping and napping at work
•Defeat the inner procrastinator inside of us
This document provides information about memory techniques. It begins by defining short-term and long-term memory, and provides tips for improving memory such as paying attention, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, avoiding negative beliefs, and using specific memory techniques. It then discusses mind mapping as a creative memory aid technique. Finally, it includes a learning styles self-assessment questionnaire.
This document discusses different modes of thinking and how to improve learning and memory. It explains that mixing focused and diffuse thinking is best for creativity. Memory is improved through repetition and using sensory and spatial associations. Procrastination occurs when the brain avoids difficult or unpleasant tasks, but it can be overcome using techniques like Pomodoro, focusing on processes not products, and developing helpful habits.
This document provides tips for making college learning easier through effective study techniques. It recommends reading textbooks multiple times to fully understand and retain the material. Notes should be reviewed the same day as lectures to form "chunks" of knowledge through focused attention, understanding, and practice. Regular practice with techniques like flashcards and the Pomodoro method can help commit information to long-term memory. It's also important to leave time for "diffused mode" activities after study to allow the unconscious mind to process lessons before reviewing again later. Spacing out review over time through techniques like deliberate practice leads to better retention than cramming.
Learning How to Learn Assignment #2: Memory, Procrastination and Related Key ...sashasally
The document discusses memory and techniques for committing information to long-term memory. It explains that memory consists of short-term and long-term portions. Short-term memory is temporary while long-term memory stores information for the long run. Techniques like using cue cards, mnemonics, and visual representations can help transfer information to long-term memory. Spacing out study periods also aids long-term retention by giving the brain time to process information. Overcoming procrastination through limiting distractions and goal-setting is important for effective learning.
This document provides tips for improving learning and overcoming procrastination. It recommends using a planner, committing to daily routines and tasks, and rewarding yourself for completing work to tackle procrastination. The Pomodoro technique of focusing for 25 minutes and then taking a break is also suggested. When learning, people should chunk information into basic ideas, practice recalling content in different locations, and test themselves on the material. The document outlines 10 rules for good studying, including recalling information without notes, testing yourself frequently, spacing out repetition over time, and using explanatory questions and analogies when struggling with concepts.
The document outlines ten rules for good studying and ten rules for bad studying. The rules for good studying include using recall after reading, testing yourself frequently, spacing out repetition over time, taking breaks when frustrated, focusing for 25 minutes at a time, and doing the hardest work first. The rules for bad studying are passive rereading, over-highlighting, waiting until the last minute, being constantly distracted, and not getting enough sleep.
The document discusses various techniques for effective learning. It covers modes of thinking like focused thinking which concentrates on the task at hand versus diffuse thinking which allows the mind to wander and make connections. It also discusses procrastination and provides tips to overcome it like setting to-do lists and limiting distractions. Regarding memory, it explains how repetition and spaced practice can strengthen long-term memory versus short-term memory which decays quickly. Finally, it offers tips for learning efficiently such as chunking information, interleaving topics, avoiding illusions of competence, and not falling for the Einstellung effect of relying on past solutions too much.
5 principles for better learning freely taken from a coursera moo: Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help
you master tough subjects
by Dr. Barbara Oakley, Dr. Terrence Sejnowski
Studying involves both learning and remembering information. There are many memory techniques that can be used to improve recall, including organizing information, associating new ideas with prior knowledge, using visualizations and recitation, and spacing out review sessions over time. Effective memorization relies on integrating information and regular practice recalling it.
1. Learning requires developing effective methodologies and habits to optimize how the brain acquires knowledge. While focused, intensive work is important, it is equally important to allow for sufficient rest and breaks to allow knowledge to transfer to long-term memory.
2. Both focused, deep work on a topic as well as more diffuse, creative thinking are important for learning. Taking breaks between intensive study sessions allows the brain to make new connections and see things from different perspectives.
3. Sleep is essential for the brain to consolidate learning, remove toxins, and form new neural connections. Procrastination can be addressed by starting with less appealing tasks, planning the next day's schedule before bed, and actively participating in discussions rather than
Mindfulness Workshop – A Grassroots Approach to Improving Self/Tech BalanceShihui Kong
This workshop is an experiment born out of my MA thesis at Hyper Island. Most of the exercises in the workshop contain experimental frameworks, created out of my synthesis of online research. I would love to receive any feedback that can help refine the workshop further. :)
Inspiration & Credits:
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Cactus app
Tiny Spells newsletter
A conversation with Samantha
Hyper Island Toolkit
Learning new skills in one month can be achieved through effective learning techniques backed by science. These include saying information out loud to improve memory recall, taking handwritten notes which enhances comprehension, and spacing out study sessions over time which makes information easier to retain. Testing yourself frequently, modifying your practice methods, exercising regularly, sleeping more, interleaving different subject learning, teaching others, and relating new knowledge to existing knowledge are other effective strategies supported by research to accelerate learning.
This document discusses the power of the mind and how to maximize its potential. It explains that the mind is composed of attention, mental images, and thoughts, which have energy and can affect reality. It provides 10 ways to use mind power, such as being conscious of thoughts, having positive sources of influence, and speaking of success in the present. It discusses the subconscious mind, which makes up 95% of brain power and handles automatic functions. Various methods are presented for strengthening the mind through practices like meditation, visualization, affirmations, gratitude, and learning from failures.
The document provides an outline of a classroom session on understanding habits. It includes the following key points:
1. The session discusses habits, how they are formed and broken, strategies for breaking bad habits and forming good ones, and creating plans.
2. Students complete workbook activities covering habits, benefits and disadvantages, and strategies for breaking and forming habits using mindfulness and visualization.
3. The session concludes with discussing homework on creating plans to break a bad habit and form a good one, and the benefits of sharing plans with others.
Design Your Habits is an online class that uses the principles and tools of Behavior Design to guide you through a practical project: designing a sustainable daily habit to improve your productivity, creativity, health, or wellbeing.
-Enroll for free at http://designyourhabits.co
-Sign up to receive my Curated Habit Resources at http://fortelabs.co/blog
-Follow me on Twitter @fortelabs
-Watch the first 4 lessons on YouTube (http://bit.ly/1uJ8v4y)
-Watch a highlight reel of this class being delivered live (http://bit.ly/1ABUlVH)
Sources and attribution at http://www.fortelabs.co/design-your-habits-sources.
Similar to Learning how to learn Project.pptx (20)
हिंदी वर्णमाला पीपीटी, hindi alphabet PPT presentation, hindi varnamala PPT, Hindi Varnamala pdf, हिंदी स्वर, हिंदी व्यंजन, sikhiye hindi varnmala, dr. mulla adam ali, hindi language and literature, hindi alphabet with drawing, hindi alphabet pdf, hindi varnamala for childrens, hindi language, hindi varnamala practice for kids, https://www.drmullaadamali.com
How to Build a Module in Odoo 17 Using the Scaffold MethodCeline George
Odoo provides an option for creating a module by using a single line command. By using this command the user can make a whole structure of a module. It is very easy for a beginner to make a module. There is no need to make each file manually. This slide will show how to create a module using the scaffold method.
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp NetworkTechSoup
Dive into the world of AI! Experts Jon Hill and Tareq Monaur will guide you through AI's role in enhancing nonprofit websites and basic marketing strategies, making it easy to understand and apply.
How to Add Chatter in the odoo 17 ERP ModuleCeline George
In Odoo, the chatter is like a chat tool that helps you work together on records. You can leave notes and track things, making it easier to talk with your team and partners. Inside chatter, all communication history, activity, and changes will be displayed.
This presentation includes basic of PCOS their pathology and treatment and also Ayurveda correlation of PCOS and Ayurvedic line of treatment mentioned in classics.
This presentation was provided by Steph Pollock of The American Psychological Association’s Journals Program, and Damita Snow, of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), for the initial session of NISO's 2024 Training Series "DEIA in the Scholarly Landscape." Session One: 'Setting Expectations: a DEIA Primer,' was held June 6, 2024.
1. Learn how to learn
in 6 slides
BY KOUROSH HASANZADEH
2. The two different modes of thinking
Focused Mode Diffuse Mode
• Intense concentration
• Happens when you
focus on a subject
• Mind is focused on one
problem and nothing
else
• Used for familiar ideas
and concepts
• Relaxed thinking
• Happens when you take
a break
• Mind works on the
problem in the
background
• Useful when new ideas
and approaches are
needed
One can’t be in both modes at the same time. The mind needs to go back and forth between the two modes to learn something new.
Example of focused mode is when you concentrate on a problem. Examples of diffuse mode is when you take a walk, or a shower etc.
3. Procrastination, Memory and Sleep
Why it happens:
When you look at something that you rather not
do, you activate the areas of your brain associated
with pain, so your brain looks for a way to stop
that negative stimulation by switching your
attention to somewhere else.
Why it’s important:
Being awake creates toxic products in
the brain, and sleeping helps washing
the toxins out, and keeps the brain
clean and healthy.
The part of memory that has to do with what
you’re immediately processing in your mind. Can
only hold 4 chunks of information and you need
to keep repeating things, so it stays in your
working memory
How to tackle:
The Pomodoro technique: Set a timer to 25
minutes, turn off all interruptions, and then focus.
Give yourself a reward when you’re done. (Web
surfing, cup of coffee, etc.)
Long-term Memory:
Working Memory:
Is like a storage warehouse. To lodge an item in
long-term memory, you need to revisit it a few
times so that you can find it later. You can move a
new idea from working memory to long-term
memory with spaced repetition.
How it affects learning:
During sleep, the brain tidies up ideas
and concepts you’re thinking about
and learning. It erases the less
important parts of memories and
strengthens areas you need or want to
remember.
4. Chunking
What is chunking?
Chunking is the mental leap that helps you
unite bits of information together through
meaning. The new logical whole makes the
chunk easier to remember and makes it
easier to fit the chunk into the larger
picture of what you’re learning.
Chunks are pieces of information, bound
together through meaning or use, and one
of the first steps towards gaining expertise
in academic topics is to create conceptual
chunk.
Basically, a chunk means a network of
neurons that are used to firing together so
you can think a thought or perform an
action smoothly and effectively.
How to form a chunk?
The first step on chunking is simply to focus your
undivided attention on the information you want to
chunk. The second step in chunking is to understand
the basic idea you’re trying to chunk. The third step
to chunking is gaining context, so you can see not
just how but also when to use this chunk.
In summary, chunks are best built with focused
attention, understanding the basic idea, and practice
to help you gain mastery and a sense of the big
picture context. Those are the essential steps in
making a chunk.
Focused practice and repetition, the creation of
strong memory traces, helps you to create chunks.
The value of chunks:
Basically, what people do to enhance their
knowledge and gain expertise is to
gradually build the number of chunks in
their mind, valuable bits of information they
can piece together in new and creative
ways.
Chunking helps your brain run more
efficiently. Once you chunk an idea or
concept, you don’t need to remember all
the little underlying details. You’ve got the
main idea, the chunk, and that’s enough.
Chunks can also help you understand new
concepts because when you grasp one
chunk, it can be related to similar chunks.
5. The dos and the don’ts
• Reread: This approach is actually much less productive than another,
very simple technique, called recall.
• Recall: After reading the material, simply look away, and see what
you can recall from the material.
• Solve yourself: You must have the information persisting in your
memory if you’re to master the material well enough.
• Just look at solution: Glancing at a solution and thinking you
know it is a common illusion of competence in learning.
• Highlight and underline: Making lots of motions with your
hand can fool you into thinking you grasped the concept.
• Take notes in a margin: Words or notes in a margin that
synthesize key concepts are a very good idea.
• Interleave: Practice your choice of different concepts, approach and
techniques all in one session.
• Deliberate practice: Balance your studies by deliberately
focusing on what you find more difficult.
• Practice only easy stuff: It can bring the illusion that you’ve
mastered the material.
• Fall victim to Einstellung: Einstellung is when your initial
thought, an idea you’ve already had in mind, or a neural pattern you’ve
already developed well and strengthened, prevents a better idea or
solution from being found.
• Trust the Law of Serendipity: Lady luck favors the one who
tries. Just pick one tiny thing out to learn, then another. Keep trying
and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the results.
• Spaced repetition: Using a subsequent, spaced study session to
repeat what you’re trying to learn is fine and valuable. It can strengthen
and deepen your chunked neuron patterns.
• Overlearn: Once you’ve got the basic idea, continuing to hammer
away at it during the same session doesn’t strengthen the kinds of
long-term memory connections you want.
• Just jump into water: Don’t blindly start doing homework
without reading the textbook, attending lectures, etc.
6. More on procrastination
Habits & zombie mode:
Chunking is related to habit. Habit is an
energy saver for us. It allows us to free our
mind for other types of activities, and you
go into this habitual zombie mode. Habits
can be good or bad.
You can think of habits as having four parts.
The first is the cue. This is the trigger that
launches you into zombie mode. The second
part is the routine. This is your zombie
mode, the routine habitual response your
brain is used to falling into when it receives
the cue. The third is the reward. Every habit
develops and continues because it rewards
us. The fourth is the belief. Habits have
power because of your belief in them.
Building good habits:
Procrastination is an easy, bad habit to develop
because the reward, moving your mind’s focus to
something more pleasant happens so quickly and
easily.
The trick to overriding a habit is to look to change
your reaction to a cue. This is the only place where
you need to apply willpower.
Habits are powerful because they create neurological
cravings. It helps to add a new reward of you want to
overcome your previous cravings. Only once your
brain starts expecting that reward will the important
rewiring take place that will allow you to create new
habits.
A good way to keep perspective about what you’re
trying to learn and accomplish is to write a weekly
list of key tasks in a planner journal. Remember to
eat you frogs first in the morning. Try to wok on the
most important and most disliked task first. At least
one Pomodoro as soon as you wake up.
Process vs Product:
It’s perfectly normal to start with a few
negative feelings about beginning a
learning session. If you find yourself
avoiding certain tasks because they make
you feel uncomfortable, you can learn to
focus on process, not product.
Process means the flow of time and the
habits and actions associated with that flow
of time. Product is an outcome, for example,
a homework assignment that you need to
finish.
To prevent procrastination, you want to
avoid concentrating on product, which is
what triggers the pain that causes you to
procrastinate. Instead, your attention should
be on building processes. The small chunks
of time you need over days or weeks to
work on the problem.
7. More on memory
Mnemonics
We have outstanding visual and special
memory systems that can help form part of
our long-term memory. To tap into the
visual memory system try making a very
memorable visual image and representing
one key item you want to remember.
For something to move on from working
memory to longterm memory two things
should happen. The idea should be
memorable, and it must be repeated.
Consolidation is the process of storing new
memories in the cortex that can take many
years. Whenever you recall a memory, it
changes, a process called reconsolidation.
Memory palace technique
The memory palace technique is a particularly
powerful way of grouping things you want to
remember. It involves calling to mind a familiar place
like the layout of your house and using it as a visual
notepad where you can deposit the concept images
that you want to remember.
The memory palace technique is useful for
remembering unrelated items such as grocery list.
Basically, you’d imagine yourself walking through a
place you know well, coupled with shockingly
memorable images of what you want to remember.
Such memory tools speed up the acquisition of both
chunks, and big picture templates helping to
transform novices to semi experts much more
quickly even in a matter of weeks.
Creating groups
Another key to memorization is to create
meaningful groups that simplify the
material. Let’s say you wanted to remember
four plants that help ward off vampires;
garlic, rose, hawthorn, and mustard. The first
letters abbreviate to GRHM. So all you need
to do to remember is to use the image of a
Graham cracker.
It’s much easier to remember numbers by
associating them with memorable events.
Many disciplines use memorable sentences
to help students memorize concepts.