Maximizing Learning Efficiency: An Exploration of Six Evidence-Based Cognitive Psychology Techniques
These strategies work best when implemented in combination, rather than in isolation.
Academic success and personal development require effective learning. Cognitive psychology research has yielded a lot of knowledge on how the human brain processes and stores information. This research revealed six successful learning strategies: spaced practice, retrieval practice, elaboration, interleaving, concrete examples, and dual coding. Each of these tactics can be used in a variety of ways to help students enhance their understanding and retention of material.
Spaced practice is a technique that involves spreading out the time between studying specific material. This makes it easier to remember things because the brain has more time to process and store information. For example, you could study vocabulary words on Monday, review them on Wednesday, and then review them again on Friday.
The act of recalling information from memory is referred to as retrieval practice. This can be accomplished through the use of flashcards, self-quizzing, and test-taking techniques. Retrieval practice strengthens the brain connections involved in storing and retrieving knowledge, making it easier to recall later. Making flashcards for a specific topic and reviewing them on a regular basis is one practical approach to use this strategy.
The process of connecting new information to what is already known is known as elaboration. Students absorb and retain material more easily when new information is linked to prior knowledge. This method can be concretely implemented by encouraging students to apply the material to real-life situations or by asking them to describe new information in their own words.
The process of alternating the study of different related skills or topics is known as interleaving. This allows students to have a more flexible knowledge of the content and improves their problem-solving abilities. This method can be concretely implemented by presenting students with a variety of issues or assignments rather than focusing on one type at a time.
Concrete examples allow students to understand abstract concepts by offering a tangible depiction of the topic. This method can be concretely implemented by giving students real-life examples that relate to the content being studied, such as a historical event to demonstrate a concept in history class.
Dual coding is a technique that uses both visual and verbal information to express a topic. This aids students’ comprehension and retention of the subject. When teaching a concept, one specific approach to adopting this strategy is to use diagrams, movies, or other visual aids in addition to spoken explanations.
It is vital to note that these tactics operate better when used in tandem rather than separately. Furthermore, these tactics are not one-size-fits-all, and each learner may have different preferences or needs, therefore it is crucial for learners to experiment and find the combination that works best for them.
