Series 2. Episode 17. Study Smarter, Not Harder, with Professor Sean Kang

Powerful Learning Podcast

In this evidence-rich episode we are joined by our guest, A/Professor Sean Kang, as we explore scientifically proven principles of practice to supercharge your learning journey.
Sean is a cognitive psychologist whose research focuses on applying the cognitive science of human learning and memory towards improving instructional practice. He has written and published extensively on the topics of effective practice covering retrieval, distributed, and interleaved practice.
Join us in our journey to uncover research-informed practice strategies that help you go beyond what can be achieved by effort alone - to study smarter, not harder.
================ A video version of this podcast can be found here: https://youtu.be/Xb3zFeIoVRk?si=zsonsIRplCo8zksa ================
Key Questions Explored:
***Retrieval Practice: Understand why retrieval practice reigns supreme over passive review methods like rereading. We break down the concept and share practical tips for incorporating it into your teaching and study routines.
***Distributed Practice: Dive into the science behind distributed practice. Learn how spacing out your learning sessions optimizes memory retention. We’ll even touch on Carpenter’s groundbreaking ‘temporal ridgeline’ research.
***Interleaved Practice: Discover why mixing up different topics or skills during practice enhances learning. Explore the benefits of interleaving and how it compares to blocked practice in terms of both perception and outcomes.
***Timing Matters:
When should you employ these practice techniques? Is it during the initial acquisition phase or after mastering the content? We’ve got the answers.
***Debunking Myths:
Are the benefits of interleaving simply a result of the ‘spacing effect’ or is there something more to it? We’ll unravel the truth about interleaving and its impact on learning. Spoiler alert: It’s not just about spacing!
***Strategic Choices:
Are there scenarios where you should avoid distributed practice or interleaving? We discuss situations when massed or blocked practice might be a better fit.
Join us on this knowledge-packed journey and revolutionize your approach to learning!
A/Prof. Sean Kang's Academic Profile: https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/837588-sean-kang#:~:text=Sean%20is%20a%20cognitive%20psychologist,D.
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Are you new to the Powerful Learning Podcast? Welcome to the club!
I'm your host Luke Rowe, Ph.D. I'm a researcher and university lecturer who specializes in evidence-based teaching and the science of learning.
I’m extremely passionate about understanding and improving learning and I started this podcast with the hope of sharing this passion with my university students and a broader audience of curious folk.
I look forward to sharing our learning adventure together as we dive into topics about evidence-based teaching and the science of learning.
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