When learning, it’s crucial not to clutter your brain with unnecessary information. Properly using the knowledge you’ve acquired is the key to focused learning.
I would like to focus on the issue of the learning process.
And for this I have prepared two methods. The first one in which the whole process is explained. In my opinion, this is a completely ineffective strategy. The second model is based on learning specific skills in the moment. This is precisely the model I use in teaching my students.
- In a teaching model in which the teacher tells the student HOW they will achieve results, the student always has many questions. The student fills his head with information that is not necessary and even harmful at the initial stage.
When we try to explain the learning process, the student’s brain memorizes what we’ll do and becomes lazy in studying.
Subconsciously, we become uninterested in HOW we will achieve our goals.
The path we need to take is already known. Moreover, every “bush” and “stone” encountered along the way is known. This makes learning ineffective and completely useless (since the person can convince themselves they already know it, and their brain will agree).
- I advocate distributing educational material in sections, gradually “layering” it one after another. Answering questions that will provide understanding, precisely when needed. Learn to sort out “necessary” and “unnecessary”.
This learning model creates a student’s interest:
WHAT’S NEXT?
WHAT ELSE WILL I LEARN?
WHAT ELSE WILL I LEARN?
WHAT WILL I APPLY LATER?
Our inquisitive brains are restless and demand information.
As a result:
— interest in learning or the topic being studied is constantly fueled. — the student gets involved in the work, experiencing his own desire, and not being imposed from the outside.
— a restless desire to learn what’s “hidden” helps the student cope with homework.
— there is an understanding of what is IMPORTANT at the moment.
SIMPLY BECAUSE IT’S INTERESTING!
Examples of “unnecessary knowledge”:
A student is learning to perform on stage, but asks how to learn to sing like Freddie Mercury!
A student is learning to play the guitar (generally), but asks what can be done to make the guitar part more powerful.
A student is learning proper drum breaks, but asks where to place the ride cymbal to use their hands effectively.
In all cases, students ask for things they don’t need at the moment.
Performing and singing, playing parts and embellishing them, playing the drums and arranging them—these are completely different skills.
Don’t mix everything into a huge pile of “knowledge” that you never know when you’ll need. It’s better to choose one thing and do it. Then find other people who do something else. Then create your project together.
Rehearse, develop, and improve! Always!
What skill are you currently mastering? Tell us more in the comments.
If you don’t know what to choose, you can find out with a simple test.↓
