Learning How to Learn: A MIND FOR NUMBERS by Barbara Oakley | Core Message

Summary

In *A Mind for Numbers*, Barbara Oakley shares her personal journey from struggling with math and science to mastering them, becoming an engineering professor. She emphasizes the importance of learning how to learn, particularly through switching between focus and diffuse thinking modes. Oakley introduces techniques like the Pomodoro method to enhance focus and the value of taking breaks to allow the brain to process information in diffuse mode. Her insights help overcome the belief that certain subjects are too difficult, demonstrating that anyone can learn effectively with the right strategies.

Takeaways

• 😀 Barbara Oakley, an engineering professor, struggled with math and science as a student but later learned how to master them through effective learning techniques.
• 😀 Oakley emphasizes the importance of learning how to learn, especially when facing subjects that seem challenging or unnatural.
• 😀 The core concept in Oakley's approach is switching between two modes of thinking: **Focus mode** and **Diffuse mode**.
• 😀 **Focus mode** is concentrated attention, where logical and sequential thought is used to solve problems.
• 😀 **Diffuse mode** is a relaxed, daydream-like state, allowing the subconscious to make connections and solve problems in a broader context.
• 😀 Neuroscientists have confirmed that alternating between these two modes of thinking is crucial for effective learning.
• 😀 To effectively use focus mode, Oakley recommends using the **Pomodoro method**, which involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break.
• 😀 After a period of intense focus, stepping away and allowing your brain to enter diffuse mode is necessary for new insights and breakthroughs.
• 😀 Real-world examples like Thomas Edison, who used relaxation to spark new ideas, and author Nim TB, who walks away to solve problems, illustrate the importance of taking breaks.
• 😀 Oakley encourages learners to embrace the process of switching between focus and diffuse modes without guilt, as it's a natural and effective way of learning.
• 😀 The takeaway from Oakley's book is that anyone can learn difficult subjects by mastering the right learning techniques and understanding the brain's natural learning cycles.

Q & A

What is the main premise of Barbara Oakley's book 'A Mind for Numbers'?

The main premise of Barbara Oakley's book is that learning math and science—or any subject—can be improved with the right techniques. Oakley emphasizes that success in learning comes from using the proper strategies, not relying on inherent talent.

Why did Barbara Oakley initially avoid studying math and science?

Barbara Oakley struggled with math and science in her early education, even flunking out of these subjects in school. She believed that she didn't have a natural talent for them, which led her to swear off studying them.

How did Barbara Oakley overcome her initial belief that she couldn't learn math and science?

After her time in the military, where she worked with engineers and saw the value of math and science, Barbara decided to challenge her belief that she couldn’t learn these subjects. At the age of 26, she learned how to learn effectively, which enabled her to master these subjects.

What is the difference between 'focus mode' and 'diffuse mode' of thinking?

'Focus mode' is a state of concentrated attention, where we engage in logical, sequential thinking. 'Diffuse mode' is a relaxed, wide-ranging state where the brain processes information in a more subconscious way, making creative connections and solving problems indirectly.

How do the focus and diffuse modes relate to human survival from an evolutionary perspective?

From an evolutionary standpoint, humans developed the ability to switch between focus and diffuse modes as a survival mechanism. Focus mode would help in tasks like gathering food, while diffuse mode would allow for awareness of potential threats in the environment.

What does neuroscience say about focus and diffuse modes of thinking?

Neuroscientists have confirmed that focus and diffuse modes correspond to different brain regions. Focus mode primarily engages the prefrontal cortex, while diffuse mode activates multiple areas across the brain, facilitating broader and more creative thinking.

What is the Pomodoro technique, and how does it support learning?

The Pomodoro technique involves setting a timer for 25 minutes of intense focus on a task, followed by a 5-minute break. This method helps improve concentration and allows for effective switching between focus and diffuse modes, optimizing learning.

Why is it important to step away from a problem after a period of focused thinking?

Stepping away from a problem is important because it allows the brain to enter diffuse mode, where it can process the information subconsciously and make connections that lead to breakthroughs or insights.

How does Nim TB use walking to avoid writer's block, and what does this tell us about learning?

Nim TB avoids writer’s block by walking when he gets stuck. This is an example of entering diffuse mode—by relaxing and stepping away from the problem, he allows his subconscious mind to work through the issue, often returning with new ideas.

What lesson can be learned from Thomas Edison’s approach to solving problems?

Thomas Edison would use a technique where he would hold two ball bearings while attempting to doze off. The falling of the bearings would wake him and often trigger a new insight. This shows the power of stepping away and allowing the brain to work in diffuse mode to find solutions.