Some people suspect they know things simply because they hear lectures or memorize details. Do you?
If you’ve ever tried out a technology skill … let’s say a week after hearing computer operations described … you’ll likely notice key gaps. So when do you really know?
Interestingly … people rarely learn much of what they hear alone. In fact … brain experts tell us that leaders kill meetings … because talk engages so little of the human brain’s learning capability. Bank on only 5% retention from wasted hours you listen to facts drone by. If the upshot for learning is not lectures or speeches … then what works?
You may think you know more because you read … for instance. Unbelievable as it seems however … people retain only about 10% of what they read. It can vary. Pop a two-footed question such as What if…? for instance … and reading retention increases. Have you noticed that how you learn shapes what you really know?
Toss in a few images … if you're looking for another retention increase of 10%. Why so? Visuals draw on connections in your visual special intelligence … and help people pound down new neuron pathways for discovery.
Similarly, a demonstration can draw on multiple intelligences … to show how facts can create solutions to real life problems. Remember … even with 30% retention … you still often lack knowledge about what you thought you learned. Luckily there’s more good news for a serious student.
Add another 10% retention from discussions. Tack on another whopping 25% whenever you practice what you learn … according to research from National Training Institute … 1999 findings.
You’ve likely guessed the brain based learning key by now … TEACH SOMEBODY ELSE WHAT YOU LEARN AT THE SAME TIME YOU LEARN IT … and unlock about 90% retention as a bonus. 
That’s why it’s better to teach your dog than listen to a lecture … even from an expert speaker.
If you are wondering where to start … why not teach somebody at work … the 50 brain based smart skills?
I definitely learn best by teaching. This came out pretty strong when I was studying nursing - just by reading my notes out loud, I absorbed more because I heard them. THen, by helping a friend, I learned more because I was forced to really think about what I was saying.
I completely agree about the discussion part too. As shy as I am (and I am VERY shy), in classes I tend to be quite the talker, asking many questions of the teacher and participating in discussions. If I don't, I find I don't master the material as well.
I'm also a very visual learner, so I tend to teach that way.
Great post. My kids are in college and university now; I'll send them the link. You never know, they may get something out of it too.
Posted by: Marijke | February 25, 2008 7:00 AM | Permalink to Comment