Understanding How We Learn

Understanding How We Learn presents research-backed strategies and principles about learning and memory from cognitive psychology. The authors translate complex scientific findings into practical applications for teachers and students. The book breaks down six core learning strategies, explaining the evidence behind each one and providing examples of implementation in educational settings. Chapters address common learning myths and examine why certain study methods are more effective than others. Research methodology and scientific concepts are explained through clear diagrams, real-world examples, and case studies. The text includes tools for both educators and learners to assess and improve their teaching and studying approaches. This work bridges the gap between cognitive science research and classroom practice, offering a research-based framework for understanding and enhancing the learning process. The focus remains squarely on practical application rather than theory alone.

Readers describe this as a practical guide that translates cognitive science research into usable teaching strategies. Teachers and educators note the book breaks down complex learning concepts without oversimplifying them. Likes: - Clear explanations of retrieval practice, spacing, and interleaving - Visual diagrams and illustrations that reinforce concepts - Practical classroom implementation examples - Research citations to support claims Dislikes: - Some found the writing style dry and repetitive - Several mention wanting more specific lesson plan examples - A few readers felt it was too basic for those already familiar with learning science Ratings: Goodreads: 4.24/5 (392 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (466 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Perfect balance of theory and practice" - Goodreads reviewer "Would have preferred more secondary education examples" - Amazon reviewer "Finally makes cognitive load theory accessible" - Amazon reviewer "Too much focus on K-12, not enough on adult learning" - Goodreads reviewer

Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown Research-based strategies for learning describe techniques to enhance memory retention and skill development through methods such as retrieval practice and spaced repetition.

Why Don't Students Like School? by Daniel T. Willingham A cognitive scientist explains the principles of learning and memory that shape classroom instruction and student engagement.

Small Teaching by James M. Lang Evidence-based teaching methods demonstrate practical applications of cognitive psychology in educational settings through minor adjustments to instruction techniques.

Learn Better by Ulrich Boser Research findings from cognitive science and learning theory translate into concrete methods for knowledge acquisition and skill development.

Peak by K. Anders Ericsson The science of expertise reveals the mechanisms of deliberate practice and the cognitive processes behind skill mastery.

🧠 The authors created a popular education website called "The Learning Scientists" to help teachers and students apply cognitive psychology research to learning practices. 📚 Although many people believe they have a specific "learning style" (visual, auditory, etc.), decades of research show no evidence that matching teaching to preferred learning styles improves outcomes. 🔬 The book draws on over 100 years of research in cognitive psychology and education, but presents it in accessible, practical ways that teachers and students can immediately use. ⏰ One key finding discussed is that cramming may help short-term performance but leads to rapid forgetting, while spaced practice (studying over time) creates lasting learning. 🎓 The authors are both cognitive psychological scientists who left traditional academic positions to focus on bridging the gap between learning research and classroom practice.