The 5 Best Learning Techniques

As learning and continuing education are essential for professional excellence, knowing the most effective learning techniques is a real advantage.

Let us explore five proven methods for maximising your learning potential.

1. The Feynman Method

Developed by physicist Richard Feynman, this method is based on simplification and teaching.

• Select a concept: Start with a topic you wish to understand.
• Learn it: Study the subject in depth using various resources.
• Explain it simply: Next, try to explain the concept in your own words, as if you were explaining it to a child.
• Identify and address gaps: As you explain, note down any unclear points and study them further to gain a better understanding.
• Simplify and use examples: Use concrete examples to make the explanation more accessible.

 This method forces you to clarify your thinking and identify areas where your understanding is lacking.

2. Interleaved learning

Interleaved learning is a study technique that involves mixing, or interleaving, different subjects or types of problems during a single study session. This method contrasts with the more traditional approach of block learning, where one focuses on a single subject or type of problem for an extended period before moving on to another.

• Variation in subjects: Instead of focusing on a single subject for the entire duration of a study session, you alternate between several subjects. For example, if you are studying mathematics, you can switch from algebra to geometry, then to trigonometry during the same session.
• Improved discrimination: By alternating between different types of problems or topics, you learn to better distinguish the unique characteristics of each topic. This helps develop a deeper understanding and apply the right method or concept for each type of problem.
• Strengthening connections: This method helps strengthen connections between different concepts. By seeing how different topics or problems relate to each other, you can develop a more integrated understanding of the subject matter.
• Prevention of fatigue: Alternating between topics can also help maintain a higher level of interest and engagement, preventing the weariness that can set in when focusing on a single topic for too long.
• Better long-term retention: Studies have shown that interleaved learning can improve long-term retention of information. This is because the brain has to work a little harder to remember and apply information when it is interleaved with other topics, thereby reinforcing memorisation.

3. Pomodoro Technique

The Technique Pomodoro, developed by Francesco Cirillo, is a time management technique that promotes concentration. Integrated into your learning sessions, it will optimise information retention.

• 25 minutes of work: Work and study intensively for 25 minutes.
• 5-minute break: Take a short break, then start again.
• Longer breaks after 4 cycles: After four 25-minute cycles, take a longer break.

This technique helps maintain a high level of concentration while preventing mental fatigue.

4. Spaced Revision Cards Method

The spaced repetition method, also known as spaced repetition, is a learning technique based on the principles of cognitive psychology to optimise memorisation and long-term retention. This method is based on the idea that our ability to remember information is strengthened each time we retrieve that information after we have started to forget it.

• Creating records: First, create revision cards. Each card should contain a question or prompt on one side and the answer or explanation on the other.
• First revision: Review all the files once. This is the initial encoding phase.
• Increasing repetition intervals: Instead of revising these cards every day, gradually increase the interval between revisions. For example, first revise one day later, then three days later, one week later, two weeks later, and so on.
• Performance-based adjustment: If you find an answer easily, increase the interval before the next revision of this card. If a card is difficult, reduce the interval.
• Spacing effect: This method exploits the spacing effect, whereby spacing revision sessions out over time improves long-term retention. Revising information just as you are about to forget it reinforces your memory.

5. SQ3R method

Developed for reading and understanding texts, especially academic ones, it is particularly useful for absorbing and understanding complex information.

SQ3R stands for:

Survey:

• Description: Before you start reading, quickly skim through the material. Look at the headings, subheadings, summaries, images, graphics, and anything else that can give you an overview of the content.
• Purpose: This helps you establish a framework for the material you are going to study, giving you an overview of the structure and key points.

Question:

• Description: Turn each heading or subheading into a question. For example, if a subheading is «The effects of climate change,» you could ask, «What are the main effects of climate change?»
• Purpose: This prepares you to read actively, seeking answers and engaging more deeply with the material.

Read:

• Description: Read the material carefully, looking for answers to your questions.
• Purpose: This step involves active and focused reading, which improves comprehension and retention.

Recite:

• Description: After reading a section, close the book and summarise what you have learnt aloud or in writing.
• Purpose: Recitation activates your memory and ensures that you have truly understood the material.

Review:

• Description: Finally, review the entire chapter or article after you have finished reading it, answering the questions you asked yourself at the beginning and summarising the key points.
• Purpose: This revision consolidates your memory and helps to integrate the information into your long-term understanding.

At OSAM Formations, we encourage our learners to apply these techniques. Discover our training courses!