How to become a super learner: Tips to accelerate learning from Dr. Barbara Oakley
Dr. Oakley’s techniques, supported by expert psychologist George S. Everly, can help you learn faster and remember more.
No two people have the same relationship with education and learning. For some, picking up new information or skills comes easily, while others must work much harder. Often, success depends on what you are trying to learn, whether it’s a new language, a musical instrument, or memorizing facts.
Techniques that boost learning
Certain techniques can give anyone a better chance of retaining information, according to Dr. Barbara Oakley.
Oakley is the author of Learning How to Learn, which also inspired a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) of the same name. In a recent appearance on the Celebrations Chatter podcast, Oakley explained how she went from being a teenager who struggled with math to a professor of engineering. Her advice combines personal experience with psychological research.
How to become a “super learner”
Oakley recommends several strategies to maximize learning, which psychologist George S. Everly has also endorsed in Psychology Today. Everly, who overcame dyslexia and ADHD to become a professor at two leading universities and author of more than 20 books, confirms their effectiveness.
- Moderate physical exercise before studying – boosts focus and retention.
- Moderate physical exercise before taking a test – enhances test performance.
- Pomodoro Technique – study intensely for 25 minutes, relax for 10-15 minutes, then repeat.
- Hypnagogic or “pre-sleep” learning – studying as you fall asleep can improve retention and creativity; famously used by Thomas Edison.
- Multimedia learning – convert material into different formats, such as text, audio, images, or text with music.
- Four-step active learning process – study for 25 minutes, identify key points, close your eyes and relax for 10 minutes, then have someone test you on the material.
The role of mindset and support
Oakley, supported by Everly, emphasizes pairing these techniques with the Pygmalion effect, a psychological principle where higher expectations lead to better performance and lower expectations can limit results. In studying, this means finding someone who consistently supports and encourages you to reach your goals.
By combining these strategies with consistent effort and the right support, anyone can dramatically improve their learning and retention, says Oakland. Whether you’re tackling a new language, mastering a skill, or preparing for exams, applying these techniques could help you unlock your full potential.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment