Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects from Coursera

This course gives you easy access to the invaluable learning techniques used by experts in art, music, literature, math, science, sports, and many other disciplines. We’ll learn about how the brain uses two very different learning modes and how it encapsulates (“chunks”) information. We’ll also cover illusions of learning, memory techniques, dealing with procrastination, and best practices shown by research to be most effective in helping you master tough subjects.

Using these approaches, no matter what your skill levels in topics you would like to master, you can change your thinking and change your life. If you’re already an expert, this peep under the mental hood will give you ideas for turbocharging successful learning, including counter-intuitive test-taking tips and insights that will help you make the best use of your time on homework and problem sets. If you’re struggling, you’ll see a structured treasure trove of practical techniques that walk you through what you need to do to get on track. If you’ve ever wanted to become better at anything, this course will help serve as your guide.

This course can be taken independent of, concurrent with, or prior to, its companion course, Mindshift. (Learning How to Learn is more learning-focused, and Mindshift is more career-focused.) A related course by the same instructors is Uncommon Sense Teaching.

To join the fully translated Portuguese version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/aprender

To join the fully translated Spanish version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/aprendiendo-a-aprender

To join the fully translated Chinese version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ruhe-xuexi

To join the fully translated French version of the course, visit : http://www.coursera.org/learn/apprendre-comment-apprendre

What's inside

Syllabus

What is Learning?

Although living brains are very complex, this module uses metaphor and analogy to help simplify matters. You will discover several fundamentally different modes of thinking, and how you can use these modes to improve your learning. You will also be introduced to a tool for tackling procrastination, be given some practical information about memory, and discover surprisingly useful insights about learning and sleep.

(Please note that this module should only take about an hour--the extra time quoted relates to purely optional activities.)

Chunking

In this module, we’re going to be talking about chunks. Chunks are compact packages of information that your mind can easily access. We’ll talk about how you can form chunks, how you can use them to improve your understanding and creativity with the material, and how chunks can help you to do better on tests. We’ll also explore illusions of competence in learning, the challenges of overlearning, and the advantages of interleaving.

Procrastination and Memory

In this module, we talk about two intimately connected ideas—procrastination and memory. Building solid chunks in long term memory--chunks that are easily accessible by your short term memory—takes time. This is why learning to handle procrastination is so important. Finally, we talk about some of the best ways to access your brain’s most powerful long term memory systems.

Renaissance Learning and Unlocking Your Potential

In this module we’re going to talk more about important ideas and techniques that will enhance your ability to learn. You’ll also discover how to more profitably interact with fellow learners, how to recognize your own strengths, and how to avoid the “imposter syndrome.” Fighter pilots and surgeons use checklists to help them with their critical duties—you can use a similar checklist to help you prepare for tests. Ultimately, you will learn more about the joys of living a life filled with learning!

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Emphasizes easy access to invaluable learning techniques used by experts in various disciplines

Instructed by Dr. Terrence Sejnowski and Barbara Oakley, renowned experts in learning and neuroscience

Provides a structured approach to enhancing learning strategies, including techniques for overcoming procrastination and improving memory

Suitable for individuals seeking to improve their learning skills in any discipline, regardless of their current proficiency level

Course materials are available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a broader audience

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects with these activities:

Review the Book: Make It Stick

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Read the book 'Make It Stick' to gain a deeper understanding of evidence-based learning techniques and strategies.

View Make It Stick: The Science of Successful... on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly
Summarize key concepts and highlight important passages

Review Chunking

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Review the concept of chunking to prepare for the course's focus on information encapsulation.

Browse courses on Chunking

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Read the course syllabus module on Chunking
Watch an online video or tutorial on chunking
Practice identifying chunks in a text or lecture

Develop a Personalized Study Plan

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Create a tailored study plan to optimize learning, allocate time effectively, and monitor progress.

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Assess personal learning style and strengths
Identify course objectives and learning goals
Design a flexible and realistic study schedule
Incorporate active learning techniques and resources
Regularly review and adjust the study plan based on progress and feedback

Five other activities

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Practice Procrastination Management

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Engage in exercises and drills to develop strategies for procrastination management and effective time allocation.

Browse courses on Procrastination

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Identify common procrastination triggers and patterns
Develop a personalized procrastination management plan
Practice using time management techniques

Learn Interleaving Techniques

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Explore interleaving techniques to enhance memory and understanding of course material.

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Find online tutorials on interleaving techniques
Apply interleaving techniques while studying for the course

Engage in Peer Discussion Groups

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Participate in peer discussion groups to reinforce learning, exchange ideas, and challenge perspectives.

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Join or create a study group with peers
Actively participate in discussions, sharing insights and asking questions
Reflect on and apply the perspectives gained from group discussions

Attend Industry Conferences or Webinars

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Connect with professionals in the field and stay updated on industry trends.

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Research and identify relevant conferences or webinars
Register and attend the event
Network with attendees and explore potential collaborations

Contribute to the Course's GitHub Repository

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Engage with the course community by contributing to the course's GitHub repository, sharing resources, and collaborating on projects.

Browse courses on Open Source

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Join the course's GitHub repository
Review the existing code and documentation
Identify areas for improvement or contribution
Create and submit a pull request with your changes

Career center

Learners who complete Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

Data analysts build foundations in learning that many do not have, which is utilized to consolidate raw data for useful interpretation by management for use in decision making. This course helps build the foundational understanding of organizing, storing, and retrieving important information for use by management.

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Professor

Professors are always looking for ways to make the information they present as clear and concise as possible. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning plans.

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Higher Education Administrator

Higher education administrators are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Higher Education Administrator

Curriculum Developer

Curriculum developers are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning.

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Instructional Designer

Instructional designers are always looking for ways to make the information they present as clear and concise as possible. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning plans.

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Technical Writer

Technical writers are always looking for ways to make the information they present as clear and concise as possible. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective documentation.

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Teacher

Teachers are always looking for ways to make the information they present as clear and concise as possible. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning plans.

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Learning and Development Manager

Learning and development managers are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning programs.

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Educational Consultant

Educational consultants are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Consultant

Instructional Coach

Instructional coaches are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning.

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Education Researcher

Education researchers are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning.

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School Principal

School principals are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning.

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Software Engineer

Software engineers are always looking for ways to expand their knowledge about new and existing systems and platforms to stay on top of their craft. This course may be useful in developing new problem-solving techniques that will aid in the development and maintenance of complex software systems.

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Education Specialist

Education specialists are always looking for ways to make learning more efficient, while also maximizing the retention of that information. This course may be useful in developing problem-solving techniques that will aid in developing effective learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Education Specialist