Barbara Oakley PhD, a top expert in the psychology of learning, shares practical advice on optimizing learning, memory boosting, and neutralizing procrastination. Topics include improving the education system, mechanics of learning, perceptions of mathematical ability, and the importance of optimistic realism. Oakley's online course, 'Learning How to Learn,' has over half a million students. Discover her inspiring story and strategies to improve memory and learning.
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insights INSIGHT
Two Complementary Thinking Modes
The brain has two distinct modes: focused (concentrated) and diffuse (resting) which support different kinds of problem solving.
Effective learning requires alternating between these modes rather than trying to use both simultaneously.
insights INSIGHT
Metaphor Is Core To STEM
Metaphor and analogy are central tools in math and science, not just in the humanities.
Top professors often rely on vivid analogies to communicate difficult concepts, even if they feel embarrassed to admit it.
insights INSIGHT
Broaden Passions, Don’t Just Follow Them
Following only immediate passions narrows long-term options because some skills take longer to develop.
Broaden interests to include technical or number skills alongside humanities for better future prospects.
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On this episode of The Psychology Podcast, we dive deep into the psychology of learning with one of its top experts, Barbara Oakley PhD. She shares some tremendously practical advice on how to optimize learning, boost memory and neutralize procrastination. We also shed light on related topics like improving the education system, the mechanics of learning, popular perceptions of mathematical ability and the importance of optimistic realism. Barbara's free online course Learning How to Learn is one of the most popular courses in the world, with well over half a million students in its first six months alone; We’re lucky to learn from this master of learning how to learn!
"Barbara Oakley, PhD, PE, is a professor of engineering at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, and writer of national acclaim. Her research focuses on the complex relationship between neuroscience and social behavior. Dr. Oakley’s research has been described as “revolutionary” in the Wall Street Journal—she has published in outlets as varied as the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and The New York Times. Oakley’s books have been praised by many leading researchers and writers, including Harvard’s Steven Pinker and E. O. Wilson, and National Book Award winner Joyce Carol Oates. Her forthcoming A Mind for Numbers: How to Excel at Math and Science (Even If You Flunked Algebra) (Penguin, July 31, 2014) is opening new doors on how to learn.” -Blurb taken from Coursera
The Psychology Podcast 