/en/learning-tips/learning-from-failure/content/
This learning tutorial is designed to help you consider how brains have the ability to learn in many different ways. And how understanding some basics about how our brains work can help us learn more efficiently.
Have you heard of the concept of learning styles? That if we pay attention to how we like to learn, whether it’s visual, or auditory or kinesthetic, that we’ll actually learn better? Maybe you’ve even decided that you’re a visual learner so you are very careful about making sure that you’re focused on things that are visual instead of always listening or reading. Or maybe you’ve decided you like to listen to podcasts, so you’re an auditory learner. But maybe that hasn’t always translated to getting better grades.
How could this be?
For years, we’ve been told that discovering our learning style—whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic—was the secret to mastering new information. It feels intuitive, even reassuring, to think that tailoring our learning to these preferences will make us more successful. But what if I told you that this focus on learning styles doesn’t actually improve how well we learn?
The concept of learning styles suggests that we all have a fixed way of learning that works best for us. But recent research on how the brain works tells a different story. Studies have consistently shown that sticking to one learning style doesn’t lead to better outcomes. In fact, it can limit our potential to learn in more effective and versatile ways.
As it turns out, research has proven that how our brains process and remember information is far more important than how we think we learn best. Effective learning isn’t about matching information to a preferred style—it’s about engaging with the material in ways that align with how our brains naturally work.
As it turns out, research has proven that how our brains process and remember information is far more important than how we think we learn best. Effective learning isn’t about matching information to a preferred style—it’s about engaging with the material in ways that align with how our brains naturally work. As a matter of fact, we know that all of our brains are capable of processing information through both words and visuals. By combining verbal explanations with images, diagrams, or other visual aids, you create multiple pathways for remembering the information. This makes it easier to recall when you need it, especially under pressure.
What else have we learned about the brain? We’ve learned that when you study and all at once, your brain gets overloaded and you don’t remember everything. So what should we do instead?
Spacing out your study time takes advantage of the way our brains naturally forget and relearn. For example, you might review new information right after learning it, then again the next day, then a few days later, and so on. Each repetition makes the memory trace stronger, helping you retain the information long-term.
As an auditory learner, you might enjoy studying in groups. This would allow you to have discussions about the material.
Another highly effective strategy is self-testing. Testing isn’t just a way to assess what you’ve learned—it’s a powerful learning tool in itself. When you test yourself, you’re actively retrieving information from memory, which strengthens your ability to recall it later. This process, known as the retrieval practice, not only solidifies your knowledge but also helps identify gaps in your understanding that you can focus on next. But effective learning isn’t just about using the right strategies—it’s also about being aware of how you’re learning. This is where metacognition comes into play. Metacognition means thinking about your thinking. It’s the practice of regularly reflecting on your learning process, assessing what’s working and what isn’t, and making adjustments as needed. By being more mindful of your approach, you can become a more effective and adaptable learner.
The key takeaway here is that learning isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. While it’s tempting to rely on a preferred style, the most successful learners are those who are flexible and willing to try different approaches. By focusing on cognitive abilities and evidence-based strategies, we can all improve our learning outcomes—no matter what the subject or challenge.
Keep learning, keep growing, and remember – your potential isn't limited by a "learning style." It's unlocked by your willingness to engage, practice, and persist.
/en/learning-tips/memorization-methods-and-why-they-work/content/
