3 técnicas indicadas por cientistas para qualquer pessoa melhorar nos estudos

Summary

In this engaging video, BBC News Brasil reporter Paula Adamo Idoeta explores effective study techniques grounded in neuroscience, as recommended by Barbara Oakley, co-author of 'Learning How to Learn'. Oakley, who once struggled with science and math, shares transformative insights into harnessing our brain's focused and diffused modes to enhance learning. The video reveals three key strategies: alternating between concentrated study and relaxation, avoiding last-minute cramming to strengthen neural connections, and employing active recall to cement knowledge. These scientifically backed tips promise to boost learning efficiency for both children and adults, making the daunting task of mastering new subjects much more approachable.

Takeaways

• 😀 Alternate between focused and diffused modes of thinking to improve learning and problem-solving.
• 🕰️ Study regularly, rather than leaving tasks until the last minute, to allow the brain time to reinforce neural connections.
• ⏳ Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work, followed by a short break) to improve concentration and learning.
• 🧠 Practice active recall by attempting to remember and verbalize key ideas from a text or lesson without referring to the material.
• 🌙 Get enough sleep, which is crucial for consolidating learning and forming memory.
• 📝 Start with more difficult exercises or tasks, alternating with easier ones, instead of leaving the hardest for last.
• 🚫 Avoid illusions of learning, such as rereading material without actively recalling it or thinking you understand a solution when you don't.
• 📚 Use techniques backed by neuroscience to improve learning efficiency and expand your abilities, even in subjects you perceive as challenging.
• 🎯 Break tasks into focused periods of work, with breaks or alternating subjects to engage both focused and diffuse brain modes.
• 🧠 Understanding how the brain learns and applying techniques like active recall and spaced repetition can significantly enhance learning and memory.

Q & A

Who is Barbara Oakley and what is her contribution to learning strategies?

Barbara Oakley is an American author co-author of the book 'Learning How to Learn'. She focuses on applying neuroscience to improve learning. Oakley herself struggled with sciences and math in school but later excelled in these subjects by leveraging neuroscientific principles.

What are the two modes of brain operation mentioned in the script?

The script mentions two modes of brain operation: the focused mode, which is active when paying attention to specific tasks, and the diffuse mode, which is when the brain is relaxed and not focused on a specific task.

How can alternating between focused and diffuse modes improve learning?

Alternating between focused and diffuse modes allows the brain to concentrate intensely on a task and then relax, enhancing clarity of thought and often leading to breakthroughs or better understanding after a period of relaxation.

What does Barbara Oakley suggest doing if you're stuck on a problem?

Barbara Oakley suggests taking a break to switch your brain from focused to diffuse mode, such as taking a short walk or switching to a different type of task, to increase the chance of finding a solution upon returning.

Why is it not advisable to leave tasks until the last minute according to neuroscience findings?

Leaving tasks until the last minute doesn't give the brain sufficient time to strengthen new neural pathways or reinforce existing ones, which is crucial for learning. Continuous and spaced review over time strengthens these neural connections.

How can sleep impact learning?

Sleep is crucial for learning because it is during sleep that the brain consolidates what was learned during the day, strengthening new neural connections and reinforcing learned material.

What is the suggested technique for avoiding procrastination and enhancing focus during study sessions?

The suggested technique is to use a timer to dedicate 25 minutes to focused study without distractions, followed by a short break enjoying a predetermined reward, which helps the brain stay focused during study sessions.

What is 'active recall' and how does it aid learning?

'Active recall' is a technique where you actively try to remember key ideas from the material you've studied without looking at the text, either by speaking out loud or thinking silently, immediately testing and reinforcing memory.

How does the misconception of learning, such as re-reading a page, affect actual understanding?

Misconceptions of learning, like re-reading a page, can lead to 'illusions of learning' where one believes they've grasped the main ideas without truly understanding the material, which can hinder actual learning progress.

What is the significance of revising new material soon after learning it?

Revising new material soon after learning it is significant because it prevents neural connections from weakening or being lost. Continuous revision strengthens these connections, making the learning more durable.