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Learner Reviews & Feedback for Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects by Deep Teaching Solutions

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About the Course

This course gives you easy access to the invaluable learning techniques used by experts in art, music, literature, math, science, sports, and many other disciplines. We’ll learn about how the brain uses two very different learning modes and how it encapsulates (“chunks”) information. We’ll also cover illusions of learning, memory techniques, dealing with procrastination, and best practices shown by research to be most effective in helping you master tough subjects. Using these approaches, no matter what your skill levels in topics you would like to master, you can change your thinking and change your life. If you’re already an expert, this peep under the mental hood will give you ideas for turbocharging successful learning, including counter-intuitive test-taking tips and insights that will help you make the best use of your time on homework and problem sets. If you’re struggling, you’ll see a structured treasure trove of practical techniques that walk you through what you need to do to get on track. If you’ve ever wanted to become better at anything, this course will help serve as your guide. This course can be taken independent of, concurrent with, or prior to, its companion course, Mindshift. (Learning How to Learn is more learning-focused, and Mindshift is more career-focused.) A related course by the same instructors is Uncommon Sense Teaching. To join the fully translated Portuguese version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/aprender To join the fully translated Spanish version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/aprendiendo-a-aprender To join the fully translated Chinese version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ruhe-xuexi To join the fully translated French version of the course, visit : http://www.coursera.org/learn/apprendre-comment-apprendre...

Top reviews

LB

May 17, 2020

This class really focused on the process of learning. It taught me so much. I even shared ideas with my college and high school student. They were surprised as some concepts were helpful to them also.

OO

Apr 28, 2016

Great course. Took it since it was the most popular MOOC on coursera,. Have started using a few of the techniques and they are very effective. Highly recommended no matter who you are and what you do.

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226 - 250 of 10,000 Reviews for Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects

By Harley F

Nov 18, 2020

Too long and boring, im sorry. i can see the purpose but if it was modernised it would be better

By Colleen B

Jan 31, 2021

The instructors were really bad, it was painful to listen to the course information.

By Alexander S

Aug 10, 2023

Not an interesting course. Nothing new besides the Pomodoro Technique

By Christopher C

Apr 21, 2022

Tedious and should be entirely optional.

By Sebastián

Jun 22, 2016

No hay buena traducción

By Mauro

Oct 18, 2019

Fuck this shit

By Chris O

Sep 12, 2015

I broke every rule of efficient and effective learning until I met this course, Dr. Barbara Oakley Dr. Terrence Sejnowski, and the book: “A Mind for Numbers”.

I wish I had met your group and this powerful vehicle of learning earlier –university wouldn’t have been so costly (studying the inefficient way) and the rewards could be even more phenomenal with this awareness. Nevertheless, your incredible work will continue to help mitigate the cost.

Although I maintained good grades through university primarily because of my high enthusiasm, interest and determination to achieve excellence in life–long learning, but the personal cost was undue stress –over studying, keeping many late nights, dependency on caffeine and life-work-family balance. However, I imagined there had to be a better way.

The frustrations and occasionally being at my wits end in solving some of the problems in the computer programming languages I am currently learning have instantly dissipated because of this course. I have completely changed my old and inefficient learning methods and formed new habits for learning.

Amazingly, I failed to solve the triangle problem on the first try at the end of a long day of work and study (after staring at it for about 45mins) in the book: “A Mind For Numbers” by Dr. Barbara Oakley. However, determined, I gave it another shot the next morning, right after waking up -it took me less than 30 seconds to solve. You’ve got to love the diffuse mode…

While I love academia and stand ready to dance with whatever pain it dishes out at me in my life-long learning journey, this course has single-handedly removed current and whatever inherent or perceived pain that may be associated with life-long academic learning for me.

There is a better way to rote learning method -a different, efficient and effective approach… Academic goal or any subject matter no longer need to take many years of painful endurance to achieve or master.

This course has armed me with the ultimate set of tools to expertly construct efficient and effective learning methods with measureable success. Essentially, I have learned how to hack my academic growth and goal.

Finally, in the past, I stumbled upon one or two of the methods taught in this course in academic journals and other articles. However, these occasional, inconsistent and isolated pieces of information were not cohesive to form a powerful enough force to help build a fundamental understanding and practice of efficient learning methods. Additionally, overpowering the well-formed habit of the inefficient rote learning method was a challenge.

Fortunately, this course and the book: “A Mind For Numbers” by Dr. Barbara Oakley, compiled and put all of these scientific data on efficient learning methods in to proper perspective, easy enough for anyone to understand and practice.

In the afterword chapter of the book, Dr. David B. Daniel said it best:

“There has long been a stream of potentially productive study advice coming from scientists. Unfortunately, it has seldom been translated so the average student can easily grasp and use it. Not every scientist has a knack for translation, and not every writer has a firm grasp of the science. In this book, Barbara Oakley threaded this needle beautifully. Her use of vivid examples and explanations of the strategies reveals not only how useful but how credible these ideas are.”

Thank you Dr. Barbara Oakley and the Learning How to Learn Team for a job well done! Your work is indelible in my mind and I can be certain, in others too.

By Ali A P B

Aug 24, 2019

This is the first real elaborated review I´ve done in my life. That´s the kind of impact this course can produce. I felt like I wanted to express my opinion about it and my gratitude. If you are someone who likes learning or teaching, or need to perform those activities in your everyday life for any reason, then you should take this course without hesitation. The information given is so valuable and eye opening. I personally like to read a lot and gain new knowledge about anything, but I always had that little feeling that I was not being truly efficient in doing it, that I was doing something wrong or, going further, that I wasn´t capable or smart enough to retain the information I was trying to learn, because I usually found myself investing a lot of time reading over and over again a material to realize, weeks later, that I had forgotten almost all of it. That, of course, caused me a lot of frustration. I used to feel that I was wasting my time. I knew that the best way to learn something was trough practice, but this course helped me understand how the process of learning really works, the correct way of practicing and the mistakes people usually make (illusions of learning).

I had read years ago a book about memory and memorization (Una Mente Prodigiosa by Ramón Campayo), originally written in spanish (I´m a native spanish speaker), which gave me a lot of insights and tools for memorizing better, but I never applied it to my learning process. This course has filled the gap between memorizing and learning, the missing piece that I needed to complete the puzzle. The tools mentioned in that book are also mentioned here, but joined together with the process of learning subjects completely, with understanding, creativity, flexibility, associations and long term memorization.

I have used the tools given in this course to learn and memorize the course itself, and they have been truly effective. I have also used them in studying in my own area of work, which is mechanical engineering, and also have proven to be quite useful. I now feel that the information stay in my mind for longer, which helps to understand new and more complex concepts better. Of course, memorizing is not learning, real learning comprises a lot of other things, but it´s a very important part of the learning process. If you can´t remember the material, then you can´t use the information to solve anything, to learn new things or to use the information creatively.

I also play the piano, and I have even used some of the information while practicing and learning new songs. This demonstrates that the concepts of the course can be used in any field, as long as you´re learning something.

Another important and pleasant aspect of this course, is the way Dr. Barbara Oakley presents the material. She is so kind and friendly, which gives you the sensation that you are listening to a close friend or someone that you´ve known for a long time. That makes the course material more accessible and enjoyable. Dr. Terry Sejnowski also does a very good job at teaching. They´re just so easy to hear. The material is very clear and well organized.

I will say like Dr. Barbara says very often: I can´t thank you both enough for this course. I´m really grateful. Learning is a lifelong process, and that´s where the importance of this course lies.

By Wasim H

Aug 1, 2023

I recently had the opportunity to take the course "Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects" on Coursera, and I must say that it was a truly enlightening experience. This course, taught by Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski, provides valuable insights and practical strategies for improving learning and tackling challenging subjects more effectively.

One of the highlights of the course is its emphasis on understanding the science behind learning. Dr. Oakley and Dr. Sejnowski do an excellent job of explaining complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner. They delve into topics such as memory, focus, procrastination, and effective study techniques, backed by scientific research and real-life examples. This scientific foundation adds credibility to the course and allows learners to apply evidence-based strategies to their own learning journeys.

The course offers a variety of engaging learning materials, including video lectures, readings, quizzes, and exercises. The video lectures are particularly captivating, featuring dynamic visuals, animations, and the enthusiastic teaching style of the instructors. The content is well-structured and progresses logically, making it easy to follow along and grasp the key concepts.

One aspect that sets this course apart is its focus on practical techniques and tools that learners can immediately implement. The instructors provide valuable tips and strategies for overcoming common learning challenges, such as procrastination, distractions, and information overload. Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, recall, concept mapping, and spaced repetition are introduced and explained in detail, empowering learners to optimize their study habits and improve their retention and understanding of complex subjects.

Furthermore, the course addresses common misconceptions and illusions of competence in learning. It encourages learners to adopt a growth mindset and embrace the learning process, emphasizing the importance of practice, effort, and perseverance. The course also provides valuable insights into the role of sleep, exercise, and breaks in enhancing learning and memory consolidation.

One of the strengths of this course is its universal applicability. The strategies and techniques taught can benefit learners of all ages and academic backgrounds. Whether you are a student struggling with challenging coursework or a professional looking to acquire new skills, the tools and insights provided in this course can help you become a more effective learner.

In conclusion, "Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects" is an exceptional course that combines scientific research with practical strategies to enhance learning. Dr. Oakley and Dr. Sejnowski's expertise and passion for the subject shine through in their engaging delivery and the wealth of knowledge they share. By taking this course, I have gained valuable insights and techniques that have already made a positive impact on my learning journey. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to improve their learning abilities and master challenging subjects.

By Cindy P

Jul 19, 2023

I recently embarked on an incredible learning journey through the course "Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects" on Coursera, and let me tell you, it has been an absolute game-changer! As an educator, this course has breathed new life into my teaching approach and revolutionized the way I prepare my students for tests. I simply cannot recommend it enough to my fellow teachers!

What sets this course apart is its profound understanding of the inner workings of our minds when it comes to learning. It takes us beyond the traditional methods and uncovers the secrets that make learning truly effective and enjoyable. I found myself diving into the depths of cognitive processes, armed with powerful mental tools that have transformed both my own learning experience and that of my students.

The course covers a wide range of fascinating topics, from memory techniques to study strategies, procrastination-busting techniques, and the science behind learning itself. But what truly captured my attention was the course's ability to present these concepts in a way that was not only clear and informative but also deeply engaging.

What truly blew me away was the course's emphasis on metacognition and the growth mindset. It prompted me to reflect on my own learning processes, identify my strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. By nurturing a growth mindset within myself, I now have the power to inspire my students to reach for their full potential and cultivate a lifelong love for learning.

Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski, the brilliant minds behind this course, are not only experts in their fields but also fantastic instructors. Their passion for the subject matter shines through in every video and anecdote, making the learning experience a delightful adventure. From videos and readings to quizzes and practical exercises, the course offers a rich variety of resources that cater to different learning styles, ensuring that everyone can thrive.

Since completing this course, I have felt an incredible surge of confidence in my ability to tackle the challenges of teaching and test preparation. Armed with the insights and techniques I have acquired, I can now integrate effective study strategies into my lessons, igniting a newfound excitement for learning in my students. I am confident that these invaluable skills will contribute to their long-term success, not only in their academic pursuits but also in their personal growth.

To my fellow educators, I urge you to seize this opportunity. The course "Learning How to Learn" has the power to unlock a whole new world of possibilities for both you and your students. Brace yourself for a personal, positive, and engaging journey that will forever transform the way you approach education. Trust me, you won't regret it!

By L K

Sep 21, 2020

I thought this was an absolutely great course and I am so glad I took it.

For me, multiple choice tests, problem sets and expository rather than analytic term papers were the norm.

These examination procedures are relatively objective ways to evaluate learning.

In addition, as US students, we were sometimes also expected to make oral presentations. By the way, the oral presentations of Oakley and Sejnowski were superb. When I asked my English students to come to class with an oral presentation, they addressed whatever objections or fears that they may have had, by not coming class on the day given - they knew their grade was based solely on one essay written at home and one essay written under exam conditions.

Anyway, from having studied and taught in England, my experience has been that multiple choice tests are derided, and hardly used at all for more advanced students. Being able to write an essay about something is valued or evaluated. I have taught courses where there was an essay for the exam and an essay for the term project, and that was it. To me, essays are certainly useful, and I wish that I was better at writing them myself. The drawbacks are at least two. 1) Valuing essays alone tends to favor those who can make something sound good rather than those who might have a superior understanding of a subject. This has a less than salutary effect on political discourse, among other things, not that we are doing better in the US at the moment. It favours those who sound clever rather than those who actually are clever. 2) It means that students can sometimes strategize - they may know they only have to answer 2 essay questions about two subjects out of five subjects for example, so they may not bother to learn 3/5 of the material, and there is no way to tell whether they have as much knowledge about the other subjects as about the one they wrote about in their essay.

"The Learning How to Learn" Coursera course would help any student to understand the material that they would have to write about either quickly or in a more considered way, but it leaves out the whole question (nearly) of how to get better at writing about what you have learned. This is not exactly a criticism of the course. You are likely to have heard of this tendency to value essay writing above all else in the British system. That "Learning" means different things in different places is hardly an earth-shaking conclusion but I thought I would mention it.

Thank you very much for the course. It was completely fantastic and I am so glad that a friend recommended it to me.

By Mark V

Mar 13, 2016

This is a great course. The concepts and techniques taught here should be required by every teacher and student in our school systems from kindergarten on. Of course, some of the material is well beyond the grasp of a kindergartner, but the techniques and methods can be taught by how their teacher manages the delivery of curriculum. It is never too early to teach our children how to learn.

This is a wonderfully succinct presentation of key concepts that I wish had been available to me in my youth. I was very fortunate to have an anatomy and physiology professor in college in 1979 that took time in his lectures to teach about how the brain learns and some methods and principles for study, retention, and recall. I saw many of his concepts in this course.

I later went on to teach college myself. I found the students in my Freshman course on data communications were particularly lazy about making an effort to learn material thoroughly. I knew this bad habit would hinder their progress in the semesters to come.

I adopted a practice of making my mid-term exam a thorough (not to be confused with level of difficulty) test of their understanding. Consequently, 60% would fail that test. When delivering the bad news I also delivered a path to recovering from that score. I provide several hours of lecture on what I learned about learning from my A&P professor. Then I offered a retest. The questions were posed differently in wording and type (multiple choice vs short answer essay vs T/F). Everyone improved their score significantly and the pass/fail distribution reflected more of a bell curve distribution.

Interestingly, when I tried teach how to learn before the mid-term I still saw a 60% failure rates. I expect somethings require more motivation. The risk of failing a course proved to be motivating, so I capitalized on that human behavior. I wish I could have found a better way, because this approach cost several lecture hours of data communications instruction. However, teaching them to learn proved so much more valuable.

I, unexpectedly had the same high failure rate on a term test teach an Algebra class. I responded in kind with lectures on how to learn. On student that started with failing the first term test almost dropped. Another student that had taken other classes encouraged her stay on and to learn how to learn. She finish Algebra with an A-. At the end of the course she came to me with the most treasured compliment of my teach career, "You taught me that I can learn anything I want to learn."

By Deleted A

Jun 27, 2018

Hello!“Learning how to learn” at first might seem quite absurd.But I assure you that this would be by far the most quintessential course you have ever taken.The course itself is taken by Terry Sejnowski (Professor at The Salk Institute for Biological Studies) and Barbara Oakley, (Ph.D., PE is a Professor of Engineering at Oakland University.)Where she explains, How by considering herself as the “belligerent queen in math” she flunked her way through high school math and science courses, before enlisting in the army immediately after graduation.But it was when she saw how her lack of mathematical and technical savvy severely limited her options :Both to rise in the military and to explore other careers.She returned to school with a newfound determination to re-tool her brain to master the very subjects that had given her so much trouble throughout her entire life.In “Learning how to learn”, Dr. Oakley and Terry Sejnowski lets us in on the secrets to effectively learning math and science ( or any field in particular) secrets that even dedicated and successful students wish they’d known earlier. In the course many important topics likeProcrastination, Chunking, the difference between Long-term and short-term memory and Focused and diffused modes are taken up and discussed in depths (step by step).Moreover many small topics like Test taking, Teamwork, Spaced repetition and Memory retention techniques (including memory palace, usage of analogy and visual representation) are also included which is quite unconventional but extremely helpful especially for students and learners learning a new language.Plus the small Finger exercises and Peer-graded Assignments with a grading percentage criteria always helps students to strive for the “best. Hence, whether by introducing the idea of Zombie mode and other sophisticated processes like Einstellung, Deliberate practice and Transfer idea all by taking examples of great personalities like : Thomas Edison, Santiago Ramón y Cajal and, Salvador Dali, or by providing optional interviews and redings from one of the renowned scholars : Dr. Robert Bilder, Keith Devlin, Dr. Richard Felder and Dr. Rebecca Brent never failed to enthuse our interest in a particular topic and always encouraged us to achieve our highest creative potential.Thank you !

By Abubakar A A

Jan 5, 2024

I recently had the opportunity to enroll in the course "Learning How to Learn: Powerful Mental Tools to Help You Master Tough Subjects," and it has truly been a transformative experience. The course content, presented by the engaging instructors, Barbara Oakley and Terrence Sejnowski, is nothing short of exceptional. What sets this course apart is its practical approach to understanding the intricacies of learning. The mental tools provided are not only powerful but also immediately applicable to a wide range of subjects. The emphasis on neuroscience-backed techniques adds a layer of depth to the learning process, making it more insightful and effective. The dynamic combination of video lectures, quizzes, and interactive exercises keeps the learning experience engaging and enjoyable. The instructors' passion for the subject matter shines through, making complex concepts accessible to learners of all backgrounds. I appreciated the real-world examples and anecdotes that helped solidify the principles taught. One aspect that stands out is the course's emphasis on fostering a growth mindset and overcoming obstacles in the learning journey. The encouragement to embrace challenges and the guidance on how to approach difficult subjects has been instrumental in boosting my confidence as a learner. Moreover, the community aspect of the course, including forums and peer interactions, adds a valuable social dimension to the learning experience. It creates a supportive environment where learners can share insights, ask questions, and collaborate on understanding challenging topics. In conclusion, "Learning How to Learn" is more than just a course; it's a toolkit for unlocking one's full learning potential. Whether you're a student, a professional, or someone simply interested in the science of learning, this course offers invaluable insights and practical tools that can be applied for a lifetime. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their learning skills and master tough subjects with confidence.

By Md. A M K

Sep 25, 2023

Learning How to Learn is an exceptional course that lives up to its name. I was initially drawn to it because I wanted to improve my study habits and gain a better understanding of how learning works. What I discovered was an incredibly insightful and practical resource that has genuinely transformed my approach to learning. One of the standout aspects of this course is its ability to break down complex concepts about the brain and learning into easily digestible nuggets of knowledge. It introduces you to the two distinct learning modes of the brain and provides effective strategies for harnessing them. The concept of “chunking” information was particularly impactful for me, and I now apply it to all my learning endeavors. The course also covers memory techniques, procrastination, and best practices for mastering challenging subjects. It goes beyond theory by offering actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately. Personally, I found the section on combating procrastination to be incredibly helpful, as it addressed a long-standing struggle of mine. What sets this course apart is its universal applicability. While it is valuable for students, it also caters to individuals seeking personal or professional development in various fields such as art, music, literature, math, and science. The instructors are engaging, and the content is presented in an accessible and enjoyable manner. I appreciate that “Learning How to Learn” can be completed at your own pace, making it flexible for individuals with different schedules. It serves as an excellent resource for anyone looking to enhance their learning journey. Additionally, it complements other courses by the same instructors, such as “Mindshift.” Learning How to Learn is a remarkable course that equips you with practical tools to optimize your learning experience. It represents an investment in personal growth and has the potential to revolutionize your approach to acquiring new skills and knowledge. I highly recommend it!

By Shaquan M S

May 4, 2018

This review is also found in the General Discussion Forum.

Realizing the Capabilities to Learn is My Biggest Motivation

Before starting this MOOC, I was very nervous and anxious about the materials I needed, the type of information I will learn, and how successful I’d be at completing this course. There was also some skepticism on whether or not this course would actually teach me anything useful in my journey for higher education. It took me a week to commence studies, but I quickly became engaged after introductions from Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski. I believe it was their own nervousness that gave me comfort in the beginning, and then watching them transform with a higher sense of confidence allowed me to trust their discourse.

After the first two weeks, I had the opportunity to speak creatively during Sunday dinners with family on some of the scientific factors involved with Learn2Learn. I was surprised at how much of the information I was able to recall and how it led to us reminiscing about past experiences we thought were long forgotten. I’ve definitely changed my perspective or thought process on a lot of events, circumstances, and choices discussed with family, which leads me to have a better understanding of Dr. Sejnowski’s lecture on memory consolidation.

Now that my confidence level has experienced a significant boost, it motivated me to take on a second MOOC. This could not be possible without the information I’ve obtained from “Learning How to Learn.” I had given up on myself and didn’t think I was mentally ready or capable of successfully completing college-level course work. I was wrong! After applying several of the techniques captured from this course, I am motivated to move forward with my educational goals, and will only look back to remember the skills I developed from this MOOC.

Thank You Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski for your inspiration.

By Crayola M

Apr 23, 2024

I took the honors version of this course as I was beginning my quest to learn computer programming using free resources I found online, then progressing into a high-intensity series of paid bootcamp courses. I believe I would have ended up giving up, had I not learned the wealth of information and study practices I found here. It is much more like an equip you with a range or real skills class than an informative little class-let for something you might be curious about. It begins at the beginning ( so there is no need to come into it with any kind of previous study of the science of learning) and moves through a TON of in-depth, science-based material. The topics covered naturally come together as you are progressing to build a toolkit of skills that will make learning any new and difficult information much, much easier. Material is easier to absorb, and retention, if you use the skills you have learned, is solid. I enjoyed the class a great deal, which is enough on its own. But the skills I brought from this class to learning something as far outside my natural abilities as coding made it almost seem...easy. i can not recommend this class enough to anyone, everyone. It is so empowering to understand the way neural pathways are formed and the way the brain anchors information using relationships between the new material and what you already know. Realizing the importance of and the structure of good study/sleep balance to really lock in the new info makes all the difference. To cover the probable questions you may have: The teachers are great, it's easy and clear to understand, the pace is lovely, and they don't overwhelm you with high level terminology but they definitely do not dumb it down. It is a perfectly executed, exceptionally informative and applicable course. Best of luck!

By Abhishek M

Jul 29, 2017

This course is like one of those nostalgic memories, which force us to desire foresight. Generally speaking though the course is helpful for everybody, but it will be a boon for many students. Many techniques and scenarios discussed in the course will definitely help both during learning phase and also during revision as well as in tests.

The course rightly points out many blunders that students commit due to bad habits acquired through students life. The bad habits I am talking about is about learning only and not of ethical values!! For e.g. practicing easy questions enough or first thing and not focusing on hard questions and many more like them.

So for me the course has:

PROS:

1. A very short duration of course.

2. Easy teaching style of Prof. Oakely combined with relevant examples.

3. Synthesis of various learning techniques, so that week by week students gain a better understating of learning process.

4. Easy and simple steps to follow to see improvement.

5. Interviews with relevant figures to give a flavor different and at the same time similar thinking process across the successful.

6. The course is free.

CONS:

1. The second instructor Dr. Sejnowski is very knowledgeable and have a firm grasp of the material, but the things that he taught could be trimmed by 60% easily and it still will not take away anything relevant from the course. Dr. Sejnowski also didn’t feel comfortable talking or explaining in the front of the camera so his videos appeared to be forced.

2. Most of the quiz question were taken verbatim from the transcript. As this course is about creativity that part could have been avoided to inculcate depper understanding of the subject.

But in the end, I profited handsomely from this course.

Thank you Prof. B. Oakley, Dr T Sejnowski and their entire team.

By Шушарина Д Ю

Aug 14, 2019

Me being very grateful to the Coursera and the Learning How to Learn (and another Coursera Course, somewhat similar to this one) Community. + sharing some works that I personally loved and which were brought to my mind by this particular course.

I have been introduced to the world of wonderful opportunities to gain knowledge for free and in as comfortable environment as possible qute recently by a lovely russian-speaking YouTuber- Anastacia Kay (a link to her video on courseral: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGR5yJn-GZo) and I`ve been learning here ever since. Thanks to Nastya and Coursera! And to his particular course, which has made me a much better student, I believe. For now I know why I couldnot remember things well, though I`ve spent a lot of time studying. =) And now I have a deeper understandying of some of my earlier experiences (for instance, I`ve read a fictional book by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child 'the reliquary' (detective-story & horrors -lovers might like it) and the main character used such a mental technique as 'Mental Palace'. I now know hot to use it too). + Some ideas from a great book (though its author could have argued with me on the title 'great' I gave and will continue giving it) "How to read a book" by Mortimer Adler, the ideas from the book and the course also matched and explained one another.

Plus I would say, that this course workes best together with another insightful Coursera course "Neurobiology of everyday life". They provide a look on somewhat the same topics, giving different perspectives to it!

All in all, I am really greateful to the creators of the course and the site! You help people learn about the world arround us with wonder and without limitations (financial, locational, health...)! Thank you!

By Matthew M

Jul 14, 2021

I started this course because I'm interested in becoming a Software Developer and started following a curriculum created by Developers called "The Odin Project." In the curriculum of The Odin Project, it's recommended that the "Learning How to Learn" course be enrolled in to learn the most efficient ways to learn so that your ability to understand the vast concepts necessary to be a successful Software Developer are less daunting and actually achievable. At least, that's how I understood what I was enrolling myself into. I was pleasantly surprised to learn many new things about myself, my own processes of learning, (and how I've been holding myself back from doing so efficiently) and to learn that I most certainly am not alone in the world of academics. We all have things we procrastinate on doing, but sometimes it's easy to forget that when you're swimming in your own sea of craziness. After completing this course, I feel that I understand how the brain processes learning new information, and how best I can retain that information for the future, in addition to being able to interleave my learning so it's useful to me across many different things in life, not just the thing(s) I'm trying to learn now. I also now have a better understanding of procrastination and the things I can do to help conquer it. There's a lot more in this course, and I highly recommend it to everyone. Any person that wants to truly learn and educate themselves, not waste time doing things inefficiently, and accomplish their goals should take this course. This course can not only help you achieve your learning goals, but it can help you with your everyday life and how you process information. Best of luck with learning how to learn everyone!

By IGENOZA, N O

Feb 4, 2022

Against popular opinion, learning is an art that is learned with guidelines the same way we learn various skills such as programming, driving, tailoring. It is one of the most complex phenomena considering the fact that everything else that is learned consciously or unconsciously is hinged on it. When I stumbled on the concept of “learning how to learn” on Cousera, I was more than excited to delve into it and see what it was all about. Indeed, the content in the course has so far surpassed my expectations. Learning isn’t always fun, sometimes while learning you get stuck on ideas that you cannot seem to figure out. However, through persistence and observing simple learning rules it becomes worthwhile.

A very big thank you to Barbara Oakley and Terry Sejnowski for this amazing, explicit, detailed yet concise course. I have learned so much from you. I have gained clarity in some concepts that were hitherto confusing

Having listened to Benny Lewis on the subject of leaning languages in his interview with Barbara Oakley during the course of this lesson, my passion was re-ignited. He opined that the best way to learn a language is to speak without the fear of making mistakes, this is because paying so much attention to mistakes will inhibit the learning process and might dampen the learner’s interest. I have resolved that no matter what it takes, sooner than I had expected, I would begin to speak Spanish, the language of my dreams fluently.

I would like to use this opportunity to reach out to anyone reading this who are bilingual in English and Spanish to help a friend. I want to speak it more often. It would be nice to Speak Español with you🤗.

I can be reached on igenozanic@yahoo.com

Nicholas Igenoza.

By Souhila G

Jul 22, 2017

très intéressant !!! je le recommande pour les amoureux de l'apprentissage et du savoir . Je le recommande pour les apprenants qui ont des difficultés de concentration , de baisse de motivation et de blocage .

j'ai beaucoup aimé les astuces qui aident à mieux apprendre , à mieux gérer l'apprentissage , à prendre plaisir en apprenant !

j'ai bien utilisé la technique de "pomodoro " qui m'a vraiment aidé à arriver jusqu'au bout de ce cours et je la recommande !

je dois revoir des lectures et réécouter des vidéos pour bien fixer les informations dans ma mémoire, je compte aussi les utiliser dans mon travail avec mes apprenants et donc je dois faire mon propore récapitulatif qui m'aiderait a mon tour de bien expliquer les choses et aider les apprenants dans leurs parcours d'apprentissage .

Je dois juste dire que j'ai trouvé qu'il y a beaucoup à lire , chose qui est très intéressante mais j'avoue que je n'ai pas eu le temps de lire les extras ( lecture , vidéos , lien internet ) je ne sais pas s'il y a quelqu'un qui a réussi à le faire pendant le cours ? je serais très intéressée de savoir comment la personne a procédé pour le faire ? ou Si les enseignants pourront nous donner des astuces comment pouvoir tout lire ? est ce possible ? pour ma part je vais le faire dans un deuxième temps et en utilisant la technique de "pomodoro" :-) et "recall" pour bien me souvenir de l'essentiel et j'ai aussi beaucoup aimé le mode "dufuse" je l'adore et je crois en ce mode car je l'ai déjà essayé mais d'une manière spontanée et inconsciente maintenant je sais qu'il fait parti des stratégies d'apprentissage .

merci pour tout Mme Barbara

Oakley, Terry Sejnowski! Thank you very much !

By Anastasiia T

Nov 5, 2023

"Learning How to Learn" is an extraordinary course that has truly revolutionized the way I approach learning and has equipped me with invaluable mental tools to tackle complex subjects with confidence. Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski's approach to teaching is not only engaging but also incredibly effective in fostering a deep understanding of the learning process. The course's emphasis on neuroscientific principles, combined with practical techniques, has fundamentally transformed my study habits. The modules on effective learning techniques, memory consolidation, and overcoming procrastination were particularly enlightening and have had a direct impact on my academic performance. What truly sets this course apart is its accessibility. The instructors have a remarkable ability to explain intricate concepts in a manner that is comprehensible and relatable to learners of all levels. Additionally, the inclusion of real-life examples and case studies further enhances the applicability of the course material. The incorporation of diverse learning resources, such as video lectures, quizzes, and supplementary reading materials, ensures a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. Furthermore, the interactive community forums provided a platform for meaningful discussions and the exchange of insightful perspectives, creating a supportive learning environment. Overall, "Learning How to Learn" is a transformative educational journey that empowers learners to unlock their full potential. I highly recommend this course to anyone seeking to enhance their learning capabilities and develop a deeper understanding of the art and science of learning.

By Aundra H

Jun 21, 2023

Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects, was an excellent class as well as instructor Dr. Barbara Oakley. I learned a great deal about how to learn and the process of learning. I think all teachers should take this class. I wish I had taken this class before I started my career in education. I learned a great deal about myself, study habits, and the challenges of learning in general. I love self-paced study and the tools to set gentle reminders. I could write a thesis on what I have learned in this class and how to apply what I have learned. I have started practicing the strategies taught in this class and they are working. I ordered Dr. Oakley's book, "A Mind for Numbers..." as a reinforcement tool. I ordered the book from Amazon. Let me stress, "you do NOT need the book for this class" but it is a great purchase if you struggle with math and science! This was a wonderful and spectacular class. This class can be an asset to parenting. There are a host of intriguing details and facts that I believe would help parents understand their children and why they might do the things we as adults do not fully understand. There are so many elements to this class. It is not just learning how to learn. I learned how the brain functions and why people make decisions I might not agree with in some instances. The science that supports brain function, strokes and adolescences maturation was most informative. The information is presented in an easy to learn format, in chunks, and a reinforced learning style. There is text that accompanies each presentation. Thank you again Coursera for offering this course.

By Connie T K

Dec 21, 2015

(+) Manageable bite-sized online lectures with interesting content that are highly relevant to the topic of Learning How to Learn

(+) Assessments are pitched at the right level, with questions requiring recall of the concepts learnt and some other comprehension- and application-typed questions that require a bit more thinking to apply the concepts learnt.

(+) Professor Oakley has a very interesting style of presenting the topic that makes the material very easy to digest and learn. She communicates key learning points in a concise and succinct manner using a variation of simple analogies, wacky (but meaningful) graphics, life stories and other examples to draw out or to associate to important lesson takeaways.

(+) Personally, I did not managed to finish all the optional interviews but I really appreciate the time and effort used to glean additional inputs and insights from multiple perspectives and I hope to be able to revisit this course at a later time.

(+) Professor Sejnowski's insights into learning how our brain works is something new to me. It is also an important part of this course. Although I could barely recall the terminologies, but certain images that he has shared to assist in scientific explanations, and the true accounts of HM as well as the two scientists who swollowed poison without being poisoned, did stay in me and helped me understand the material better.

Thank you, Professor Oakley and Sejnowski, the course was meaningful and well-paced, offering insights into learning and how the brain works. I greatly appreciate the effort and time spent to make the materials and information illustrative for learners.