How to Learn: Unlocking the Brain's Secrets • Barbara Oakley & Charles Humble

This interview was recorded for GOTO Unscripted.
https://gotopia.tech

Read the full transcription of this interview here

Prof. Dr. Barbara Oakley - Professor of Engineering at Oakland University & Author of Numerous Books
Charles Humble - Freelance Techie, Podcaster, Editor, Author & Consultant

RESOURCES
Barbara
https://barbaraoakley.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbaraoakley
https://twitter.com/Barbara97881398

Charles
https://bsky.app/profile/charleshumble.bsky.social
https://linkedin.com/in/charleshumble
https://conissaunce.com

DESCRIPTION
Barbara Oakley, renowned author and polymath joins Charles Humble for a deep dive into the brain's modes of operation, exploring the focused and diffuse modes of thinking, which together enhance learning by balancing task-oriented problem-solving with creativity.

They emphasize the importance of mental relaxation and the role of exercise, sleep, and a healthy diet in boosting cognitive function. Key concepts such as deliberate practice, retrieval practice, and the value of psychological safety in team dynamics are explored, offering insights into effective learning and collaboration. The relationship between working memory and long-term memory is examined, highlighting how techniques like the Pomodoro Technique and spaced repetition optimize retention. Additionally, the conversation underscores the potential of AI in education, encouraging its integration despite concerns among educators.

Lastly, the phenomenon of rustiness in skill retention is explained through the dynamics of neural connections, with a hopeful outlook on the future of neuroscience research in understanding conditions like autism and dyslexia.

RECOMMENDED BOOKS
Barbara Oakley • A Mind For Numbers
Pooja K. Agarwal & Patrice M. Bain • Powerful Teaching
Barbara Oakley & Olav Schewe • Learn Like a Pro
Barbara Oakley, Beth Rogowsky & Terrence J. Sejnowski • Uncommon Sense Teaching
Barbara Oakley & Terrence J. Sejnowski • Learning How to Learn
Barbara Oakley • Mindshift
Heidi Helfand • Dynamic Reteaming
Daniel Kahneman • Thinking, Fast and Slow
Matthew Skelton & Manuel Pais • Team Topologies

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