Improving Learning

Which Study Strategies Make the Grade?

Improving Learning With Effective Learning Techniques:
Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology

Which learning techniques made the grade? According to the authors, some commonly used techniques, such as underlining, rereading material, and using mnemonic devices, were found to be of surprisingly low utility. These techniques were difficult to implement properly and often resulted in inconsistent gains in student performance. Other learning techniques such as taking practice tests and spreading study sessions out over time — known as distributed practice — were found to be of high utility because they benefited students of many different ages and ability levels and enhanced performance in many different areas.

The real-world guidance provided by this report is based on psychological science, making it an especially valuable tool for students, parents, and teachers who wish to promote effective learning. Although there are many reasons why students struggle in school, these learning techniques, when used properly, should help provide meaningful gains in classroom performance, achievement test scores, and many other tasks students will encounter across their lifespan.

Source: http://www.psychologicalscience.org/index.php/news/releases/which-study-strategies-make-the-grade.html

Highlighting Is a Waste of Time: The Best and Worst Learning Techniques

Read more: http://ideas.time.com/2013/01/09/highlighting-is-a-waste-of-time-the-best-and-worst-learning-techniques/#ixzz2HrHqjwyJ

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