Uncommon Learning Flashcards
What is the primary function of neurons during learning?
Neurons connect with each other, forming new synapses and facilitating communication through chemical signals.
This process is crucial for the formation of thoughts and memories.
What are the two main stages of learning as described in the text?
- Learn it stage
- Link it stage
The ‘learn it’ stage involves mastering new material, while the ‘link it’ stage strengthens neural links through practice.
What is the role of the neocortex in memory storage?
The neocortex stores long-term memories and can hold about a quadrillion bytes of information.
The neocortex is a thin layer on the surface of the brain, roughly the size of a dinner napkin.
What is a common misconception about memory storage?
The problem is not how much can be stored, but how to get information into or out of memory.
This is likened to the difficulty of finding lost keys.
Fill in the blank: The ‘learn it’ stage involves presenting students with _______.
[new information or a new skill to learn]
What are some methods mentioned for helping students store information in long-term memory?
- Rereading
- Highlighting or underlining
- Retrieval practice
- Creating a concept map
These methods facilitate active learning and reinforce memory connections.
True or False: Highlighting and underlining are passive learning techniques.
False
These actions are considered a form of active learning as they involve physical engagement with the material.
What analogy is used to describe the clumps of connected neurons in long-term memory?
They are likened to connected dots.
This analogy emphasizes how interconnected concepts form a comprehensive understanding.
What happens when students practice retrieving information on their own?
The neural links are strengthened.
This is part of the ‘link it’ stage, where practice enhances memory retention.
What is the size comparison used to illustrate the capacity of the neocortex?
It can be compared to a dinner napkin.
Despite its small size, it can hold an enormous amount of information.
What are the two types of memory discussed?
Long-term memory and working memory
Long-term memory retains neural links for months or years, while working memory is temporary.
Where is long-term memory located in the brain?
In the neocortex
The neocortex is spread across the surface of the brain.
What is working memory compared to in the discussion?
A slanted shelf
Information in working memory can easily fall out if not actively maintained.
How many pieces of information can working memory hold at once?
About four pieces of information
This is described metaphorically as an octopus with four arms.
What method do students typically use to keep information in working memory?
Repetition
Repeating information helps to temporarily hold it in working memory.
What is a common misconception students have about their memory when studying?
They believe they have stored information in long-term memory when it may only be in working memory
This misunderstanding can lead to poor performance on tests.
What is retrieval practice?
Self-testing to build and strengthen sets of neural links
It is one of the oldest and most effective teaching tools.
What do students need to do before they can retrieve information?
Form links in long-term memory
Initial traces of ideas must be created before retrieval can occur.
How does retrieval practice differ from memorization?
Retrieval practice improves both memory and comprehension
It involves applying knowledge in different contexts.
What term do Agarwal and Bain use to describe retrieval practice?
No-stakes testing
It allows students to check if material is stored in long-term memory.
Why do students often struggle with retaining information?
They confuse working memory with long-term memory
This leads to poor retention and performance on tests.
What role do example problems play in learning?
They help feed information into working memory
Example problems serve as training wheels for students.
What is important to explain to students regarding memory?
The difference between working memory and long-term memory
Understanding this can motivate students to practice more effectively.
What is the key message regarding knowledge retention?
Learn it, link it
This emphasizes the importance of connecting knowledge for better retention.
What metaphor is used to describe students with high working memory capacity?
Race car brains
What metaphor is used to describe students with lower working memory capacity?
Hiker brains
True or False: Students who learn slowly can learn just as well or better than fast learners.
True
What is the primary function of working memory?
To keep thoughts alive by focusing attention on them
How many things can an average adult hold in their working memory?
About four things
Fill in the blank: Working memory is like a juggling _______.
octopus
At what age do children typically reach adult-level working memory capacity?
About 14 years old
According to the text, how can having a lesser capacity working memory be advantageous?
It allows for deeper understanding and creativity
Who is considered the Father of Modern Neuroscience?
Santiago Ramon y Cajal
What did Barbara McClintock struggle against in her field?
Inflexibility of fixed assumptions
What did Friedrich Hayek observe about his learning process?
It gave him a creative edge
How does the text describe the learning experiences of ‘race car’ and ‘hiker’ learners?
Race cars learn quickly but may miss depth; hikers learn slowly but have richer experiences
What can happen when a juggler has too many balls to juggle?
They drop all the balls
What does the octopus metaphor illustrate about working memory?
The varying capacities of individuals to hold onto information
Fill in the blank: The variations in working memory can be compared to the number of _______ the octopus has.
arms
What is the significance of learning differences in a classroom according to the text?
They require differentiated instruction to assist all learners
True or False: All students learn in exactly the same way.
False
