Strategies for Effective Learning: Why Developing a Good Learning Method is Crucial

As the world continues to evolve, so does the need for individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge. In the field of data science, for example, the rapid growth of machine learning and deep learning demands that learners adopt effective learning methods to stay on top of their game.

In the Arewa Data Science fellowship, participants are required to complete a MOOC on coursera called ‘Learning How to Learn’ to become efficient learners. As a proud member of the first cohort of the fellowship, I can attest to the importance of developing a good learning method to improve learning efficiency.

In the rest of this article, I share my take-home after completing the MOOC.

The first step in developing a good learning method is to make a plan. Journaling your learning journey and keeping track of the techniques that work and those that don’t will help you identify the most effective techniques for your learning style. It’s also important to ensure that your learning environment is free of distractions and to use the Pomodoro technique to stay focused during your learning sessions. Documenting your progress is an effective way to track your development.

Here are some practical tips for improving learning efficiency:

1. Chunking: Break down the material and focus on the main points to improve recall even after a long time.
2. Interleaving: Mix up different subject materials to prevent boredom and allocate sufficient time for each subject material in one sitting. Interleaving is more effective than blocked practice.
3. Flashcards: Memory aids are essential in retaining information, so experiment with different techniques and find the ones that work best for your learning style.
4. Handwritten notes: Writing helps consolidate information in the brain and improves recall and understanding of study material.
5. Spaced repetition: Planning repeat readings ahead of time is more effective than reading a chapter or topic multiple times in one sitting.

In conclusion, developing a good learning method is crucial for effective learning. The key is to make a plan, implement it while documenting and iterating, and work hard to achieve success. By adopting the strategies outlined in this article, learners can improve their learning efficiency and stay ahead in their respective fields.