Effective Learning Methods: How to Learn More and Retain Better

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To stimulate thinking, gain new knowledge, and enhance existing skills, lifelong learning is essential—regardless of age, prior education, or other factors. In the following article, discover how to train your memory for better information processing and retention.

Learning is Healthy

Knowledge is as vital to us as water and food. Without it, we cannot fully function, understand processes and events, navigate the world, or perform our duties effectively.

Continuous learning offers long-term benefits for both professional and personal growth. Every time we acquire new information, our brains form new neural connections.

However, we must remember that, like all other organs, the brain ages over time. To delay this process, it needs regular stimulation. Activities like solving crossword puzzles or assembling jigsaw puzzles are excellent ways to keep the brain active.

Learning isn’t just about maintaining cognitive abilities. Research shows that it can bring fulfillment, especially in adulthood, introducing positive changes to a well-established routine*.

Perception and Its Types

To make new information more accessible and memorable, you need intrinsic motivation and an interest in learning. Motivation is the cornerstone of self-improvement, driving you to pursue and achieve your goals.

However, we are all unique in how we perceive, retain, and process information. Each person has an individual learning pace and techniques for remembering new material. A critical factor in this process is one’s dominant learning style, which generally falls into three categories: auditory, visual, or kinesthetic.

• Auditory perception means information is better remembered when explained verbally. This can be stimulated through discussions. Those with strong auditory skills may recall spoken content almost word for word.
• Visual perception is when visual elements like diagrams, illustrations, or images are easier to remember, making them an important part of the learning process. This is the most common learning style.
• Kinesthetic perception supports learning through hands-on practice, such as simulations or real-life scenarios.

While it’s essential to understand your dominant learning style, it’s also possible to develop the other styles over time.

Strategies for Memory Training and Productive Learning

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Several brain functions contribute to information processing, including external stimuli, cognitive processes, thinking, and memory. Each function plays a role in organizing, structuring, and storing information. For example, one person may excel at recalling complex terms, while another might find it challenging.

By developing self-directed learning skills, you can effectively use behavioral and cognitive tools to achieve personal learning goals.

Mnemonic Strategies

Mnemonic learning strategies are popular for memory training, particularly for remembering large amounts of information or complex foreign language terms. These strategies involve learning through associations and rhymes, enhancing recall by linking new knowledge to existing competencies.

One popular approach is the Keyword Method. Start by choosing a keyword related to the topic, then visualize it and associate it with real-life examples or objects in your home.

Interesting fact

Since 1993, the World Memory Championships have been held annually, challenging participants to memorize as much information as possible within a set time. The winner is the participant with the best results. One of the most well-known champions is Alex Mullen from the United States, who won three consecutive years (2015, 2016, and 2017).

Maintaining cognitive health also relies on daily habits. Ensure quality sleep, engage in regular physical activity, and follow the principles of a healthy diet.

Learning opportunities for adults provide an excellent chance to acquire new knowledge and foster personal growth. At BDA, we offer over 250 courses (including e-learning) to strengthen digital skills and human competencies. To make learning enjoyable and valuable, choose the courses that best match your interests and qualifications!

*Source: https://www.theguardian.com/adult-learning/lifelong-learning-key-to-happiness.