How do some people manage to learn new things very quickly? How do they pick up new skills and apply them with seemingly little effort, whilst others slog over texts and models, and never seem to remember content, or more importantly be able to apply ideas? We all remember times at school endlessly repeating facts, rereading texts, underlining and highlighting. But to what end? Work by many, including Dr Barbara Oakley, from the University of San Diego, and author Peter Brown (Make it Stick, the Science of Successful Learning) have suggested that much of this effort is wasted. The study of learning is a science, and we are only now getting a better understanding of how to learn more effectively and efficiently

Oakley introduces the concept of ‘diffuse’ and ‘focused’ thinking; different modes of thinking that we can use to approach learning and problem-solving. Focused thinking could also be described as convergent thinking i.e. a focus on existing patterns and knowledge – focused thinking uses existing mental pathways to help inform actions. Diffuse thinking could also be described as divergent thinking i.e. new and different ways of approaching a problem or situation.  To learn and problem solve effectively we need to harness both modes over time; we need to move between the two to make the most of our creative minds. To explain diffuse and focused thinking, Oakley uses the analogy of a runner training for a marathon.

Training for a marathon takes time and a runner will plan their exercise schedule over a period – could be months for a novice. The schedule will include different types of exercise, various lengths of runs and multiple varieties of food.  One thing for certain, it will not be a mass of activity the week before the run (or a one day training course on how to run a marathon) and it will not be one type of run repeated again and again. Training for a marathon, learning how to run a marathon, will include variety, time, practice, reflection, support and (lots of) hard work.

In the workplace, we probably won’t be learning how to run a marathon, but we do need to learn new skills, approaches to problem-solving and decision-making, and enhanced behaviours so that we maintain and grow professional competence. Therefore, learning how to learn in the most effective and efficient way is an important skill.

So how can we practically use diffuse and focused thinking to help us learn new skills? Oakley suggests using the Pomodoro technique (https://www.focusboosterapp.com/the-pomodoro-technique), a time management tool used to ‘force’ us to change thinking modes, and therefore benefit from more creative thinking.  During the breaks between timed periods of sustained effort (focused thinking), Oakley suggests something ‘fun’ – walk outside, stretch, listen/play music, something that allows the mind the freedom to roam (diffuse thinking).  This ‘freedom time’ is when learning starts, when light-bulbs come on, realisation happens, understanding and next steps come to the fore.

Problem solving and decision making, then doing or trying something, are the first steps in Kolb’s learning cycle.  Real learning will only happen when we think and reflect on our actions, and then try to learn and develop the skill or behaviour over time.

Kolb’s learning cycle:

• Concrete experience – Try something
• Reflective observation – What happened?
• Abstract observation – So what?
• Active experimentation – Now what?

It is the reflection and action over time that will help us learn new skills and behaviour. Regular practice helps build muscles and neural pathways so that the new knowledge embeds and is more easily retrieved. Basically, we get better at stuff (successful learning) when we practice, allow ourselves time to think and reflect, and then practice again.  One off cramming, one time learning events, one anything, will not help us learn and improve effectively.  Practice over time is key to learning.

As is sleep…..

Sleep helps recall, is a good problem solver, it clears out toxins, sorts context, strengthens concepts and helps us rehearse ideas according to Oakley, and Shakespeare….  ‘Sleep that knits up the raveled sleave of care, The death of each day’s life, sore labor’s bath, Balm of hurt minds, great nature’s second course, Chief nourisher in life’s feast’.

I think its time for my nap…