Difficulty and Learning: Incorporating Desirable Difficulties into Learning Methods
Key Takeaways
- Relationship between Difficulty and Learning: The appropriate level of "difficulty" in learning tasks plays a crucial role in enhancing memory and understanding.
- Scientific Basis: Introducing "desirable difficulties" into learning processes has been shown to enhance learning outcomes.
- Practical Approaches: How to adjust learning difficulty to strengthen long-term memory and improve understanding.
The Relationship between Difficulty and Learning
In learning, it is important to set an appropriate level of difficulty. Although it may seem that avoiding difficult tasks would be more efficient, intentionally increasing the difficulty of learning tasks can be key to improving memory retention and understanding. While making tasks too difficult can hinder learning, providing an appropriate level of challenge can significantly improve learning quality.
What are Desirable Difficulties?
"Desirable difficulties" refer to the concept that making learning tasks slightly more challenging can enhance learning outcomes. For example, using methods that require more cognitive effort rather than simply using easier techniques helps strengthen memory and lead to more applicable knowledge.
The Depth of Learning and Difficulty
The level of difficulty in learning plays a vital role in embedding memory deeply. By offering challenges that are neither too easy nor too hard, learners are better able to gain a deeper understanding and solidify their memory over time.
Scientific Evidence
The following research findings highlight the effects of adjusting the difficulty of learning tasks:
1. Distributed Learning
- Spacing out learning sessions, rather than cramming, significantly enhances memory retention. Distributing learning time is one of the ways to introduce desirable difficulties.
- Evidence: Spaced learning has been shown to be effective for both short-term and long-term memory retention.
2. Interleaved Learning
- Alternating between different topics, instead of focusing on one topic at a time, enhances learning. This method promotes more flexible thinking and better memory retention.
- Evidence: Alternating between different types of tasks stimulates the brain and improves long-term learning outcomes.
3. Learning from Failure
- Introducing a reasonable level of difficulty allows learners to experience failure, which is crucial for learning. By encountering and learning from failure, learners adjust their strategies and deepen their understanding.
- Evidence: Tackling challenging tasks helps learners develop better self-regulation and enhances their understanding.
Practical Approaches
To effectively adjust the difficulty of learning tasks and enhance memory retention, consider the following methods:
Practice Distributed Learning
- Instead of cramming, distribute your learning sessions over time. For example, break up your study time into several sessions throughout the day to improve retention.
Alternate Topics
- Rather than sticking to one subject, alternate between related topics to enhance understanding and improve memory retention.
Tackle Challenging Tasks
- Engage with tasks that feel a little difficult. Initially challenging, these tasks, when tackled over time, result in better memory retention and understanding.
Conclusion
Adjusting the difficulty of learning tasks is a critical factor in memory retention. By incorporating desirable difficulties, you can deepen your understanding and strengthen long-term memory. Distribute your learning sessions and alternate topics to maximize your learning outcomes.
References
- Bjork, R. A., & Bjork, E. L. (2014). Making things hard on yourself, but in a good way: Creating desirable difficulties to enhance learning. In The psychology of learning and motivation: Advances in research and theory (Vol. 61, pp. 63–97). Academic Press.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/284097727_Making_things_hard_on_yourself_but_in_a_good_way_Creating_desirable_difficulties_to_enhance_learning