Be a Better Learner Using Psychology

Unlock the secrets to faster, smarter learning with research-based principles from cognitive psychology. Whether you are a student looking to excel on your exams or a lifelong learner aiming to master new skills, this course provides a science-backed toolkit to transform your study habits and boost long-term memory. We begin by exploring metacognition, the art of "thinking about thinking," where you will learn how to accurately assess your own knowledge and make smarter choices about what to study next. From there, we dive into the science of memory to understand why forgetting happens and, more importantly, how to stop it using evidence-based techniques. You will master three powerhouse strategies proven by decades of psychological research, starting with spaced learning, which explains why "cramming" fails and how distributing your study sessions leads to lasting retention. We also cover retrieval practice, demonstrating why practice testing is one of the most effective ways to cement information in your brain, and elaboration, which improves recall by connecting new concepts to information you already know.

However, effective learning is more than just techniques; it is about mindset and environment. We will analyze the negative impact of divided attention and multitasking on your brain's ability to process information while tackling academic procrastination head-on with actionable ways to start today and stay on track. Stop working harder and start working smarter by learning to contrast popular study methods and modifying your current habits for maximum efficiency. By the end of this course, you will be able to apply effective learning strategies to become a high achiever in every area of your life. Join us on this journey to better learning and transform your potential today.

Learning objectives

• Explain why metacognition is important to becoming a better learner.

• Describe what forgetting is.

• Explain what spaced (distributed) learning means.

• Explain what retrieval practice means.

• Explain how elaboration is effective for long-term learning.

• Explain how divided attention negatively impacts reading and learning.

• Contrast the advantages and disadvantages of popular study strategies.

• Explain why reducing academic procrastination can promote effective learning.