How to Boost Learning Efficiency: Expert Tips
We all face moments when we need to absorb a vast amount of information in a short time. Whether you’re preparing for an important exam, gearing up for a dream job interview, or aiming to master a new profession, the efficiency of your learning process is crucial. Coursera offers a unique course, LH2L (“Learning How to Learn”), designed specifically for such purposes.
This course is led by the esteemed Professor Barbara Oakley from Oakland University, renowned for her book “A Mind for Numbers” and her TED talks. Drawing from her practical knowledge in cognitive psychology, Barbara shares valuable tips for retaining and applying information in real life. The LH2L course includes various techniques, such as active listening methods that help identify and absorb key points from the material.
Barbara Oakley suggests several principles to enhance learning productivity. For instance, the “Pomodoro Technique” involves breaking time into 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between. This helps the brain manage information better and reduces fatigue. Another method is visualization, where by picturing the material in images or associations, we can significantly improve comprehension and retention.
In addition to LH2L, BrainApps offers a program called “Top Self-Education Techniques,” which can be a great complement. This program covers numerous helpful aspects, ranging from finding quality information sources to organizing one’s personal study process. It also emphasizes improving memory and concentration—crucial skills for effective learning.
Examples of techniques employed in this program include the “self-check questions” method. Here, after studying, an individual asks themselves questions about the topic to reinforce their knowledge. Another crucial aspect is the practice of short but consistent review sessions (spaced repetition). This approach is vividly demonstrated by successful students who have achieved significant results in mastering foreign languages or complex technical subjects.
