Six Effective Learning Techniques from Experts
This article will discuss six effective learning techniques, derived from the book How People Learn by the National Academy of Sciences, that can help upgrade your thinking, learn faster, remember more, and apply knowledge to solve problems. These techniques, often used by experts, focus on building a structured learning system rather than relying on rote memorization.
1. Pattern Recognition
Pattern recognition involves identifying meaningful models, principles, and structures behind information. Experts excel at this, allowing them to solve seemingly different problems with the same logic. Novices, on the other hand, often classify information based on surface-level characteristics.
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To develop pattern recognition, ask yourself about the functions, characteristics, and roles of different pieces of information.
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Focus on the abstract level and functional classification, rather than getting caught up in superficial details.
For instance, Uber and Airbnb might seem different (transportation vs. accommodation), but at an abstract level, they both utilize a platform-based mechanism to distribute free resources by building a double-sided market connecting the provider and user.
2. Constructing a Knowledge Diagram (Knowledge Schema)
A knowledge diagram is a personalized knowledge framework built in your brain based on past experiences and learning. It helps you understand and process new information related to a specific topic. The accuracy, completeness, and logic of this framework greatly influences your deep understanding.
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Experts consciously build their knowledge map while absorbing new information.
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Novice knowledge maps tend to focus on surface characteristics.
Experts construct knowledge maps centered around core mathematical principles and operational conditions, going beyond surface-level details. They not only know what law to use but also why, when, and how to use it.
3. Contextualized Knowledge (Conditionalized Knowledge)
The key to bridging the gap between knowing and doing is contextualized knowledge. Unlike traditional education which emphasizes memorization, experts consider the situations in which knowledge is applicable. They classify knowledge based on these situations, allowing for quicker recall and application.
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Think about the specific situations in which knowledge can be used.
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Classify information according to those situations for future retrieval.
For example, problem-based learning (PBL) in medicine simulates real-world clinical scenarios, prompting students to reconstruct textbook knowledge into practical clinical judgment.
4. Fluid Retrieval
Fluid retrieval refers to the ability to effortlessly recall relevant knowledge. This ability reduces cognitive load, allowing you to focus on more complex aspects of problem-solving.
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Establish effective retrieval cues to facilitate smooth recall.
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Combine cues with repeated practice for effective internalization.
Visual or sensory stimuli, personal experiences, or emotional memories can all serve as effective retrieval cues. A doctor might associate chest pain radiating to the shoulder with a heart attack based on typical symptoms or prior patient experiences.
5. Pedagogical Content Knowledge
Teaching content knowledge helps us avoid the "illusion of learning," where we mistakenly believe we understand something simply because we are familiar with its expression.
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Teaching forces you to fill in knowledge gaps and move beyond blurry understanding.
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Explaining concepts to others leads to deeper comprehension.
Teaching is a form of deep learning, helping us discover blind spots and develop a more complete understanding of topics.
6. Train Post Cognitive (Metacognition)
Metacognition involves consciously observing, reflecting on, and adjusting your own learning and thinking processes. This advanced technique allows you to identify learning blind spots, optimize strategies, and find solutions to unknown problems.
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Implement a three-step process: observation, reflection, and adjustment.
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Analyze your learning habits and identify areas for improvement.
For example, reflecting on a lack of review of mind maps led to the realization that the purpose of mind maps was misunderstood. Adjusting the approach resulted in a more effective knowledge structure.