Barbara Oakley | Learning How to Learn | Talks at Google

The speaker introduces the concept of lifelong learning, quoting Charlie Munger and Warren Buffett to emphasize its importance. He discusses the inspiration behind learning and the science behind effective learning, as inspired by Barb's book. The speaker also shares his personal connection with the book and his background, setting the stage for the main topic of the talk: how to become an effective learner.

Barbara Oakley takes the stage, expressing her pleasure to be present and starting her talk with a personal anecdote about people-watching, particularly an individual named Neil from her time in Antarctica. She uses this story to transition into the main theme of learning, suggesting that the audience will learn to get in touch with themselves and their learning processes. She also briefly touches on her own educational background and challenges with math and science.

The speaker delves into the neuroscience of learning, describing two fundamental modes of brain operation: focused mode and diffuse mode. She uses the metaphor of a pinball machine to illustrate these concepts, explaining how focused mode relies on established neural pathways, while diffuse mode allows for broader thinking and the generation of new ideas. The speaker emphasizes the importance of both modes in learning and problem-solving.

This section highlights the importance of diffuse mode thinking in creativity, using examples from Salvador Dali and Thomas Edison, who both utilized relaxation techniques to foster new ideas. The speaker explains how taking a break from focused thinking can lead to breakthroughs in understanding, suggesting practical applications for individuals, including exercise and relaxation, to stimulate diffuse mode thinking.

The speaker discusses the necessity of switching between focused and diffuse modes for effective learning. She uses the analogy of a weightlifter to illustrate that learning requires time and the development of neural scaffolding. The speaker also addresses procrastination, suggesting that it can be managed using the Pomodoro Technique, which involves focused work periods followed by short breaks.

The speaker explains the critical role of sleep in the learning process, describing how sleep helps in the removal of toxins from the brain and facilitates the growth of new synaptic connections. She emphasizes that sleep is not just a passive state but an active part of learning, necessary for the consolidation of new knowledge.

The speaker discusses the benefits of exercise for cognitive function and learning. She explains how new neurons are formed in the hippocampus and how exercise helps these neurons survive, contributing to learning and memory. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about a colleague who maintains his intellectual edge through regular exercise.

The speaker introduces the concept of working memory and its limitations, suggesting that it has about four slots for holding information. She explains the process of chunking, where information is compressed into a single unit that can be easily managed by working memory. The speaker also discusses the importance of understanding and practice in transforming information into durable memory chunks.

The speaker challenges the notion that speed in thinking is always advantageous. She cites the example of Santiago Ramon y Cajal, emphasizing the value of persistence and flexibility in learning. The speaker encourages slow thinkers to embrace their approach, suggesting that it can lead to a deeper and more thorough understanding of complex subjects.

The speaker addresses the common experience of impostor syndrome, where individuals feel like frauds in their achievements. She advises awareness of this phenomenon to counteract its effects. Additionally, she discusses the illusions of competence in learning, where students may believe they understand material until tested, highlighting the importance of self-testing and active learning techniques.

The speaker provides various strategies for effective learning, such as self-testing, using flashcards, practicing key problems, and simple recall. She also emphasizes the importance of explaining complex ideas in simple terms and immersing oneself in the subject matter. The speaker encourages learners to judiciously study with others and to incorporate practice and repetition into their learning routines.

In the concluding part of the talk, the speaker advises not just to follow one's passions but to broaden them. She suggests that passion can develop from what one becomes good at and that taking the time to master skills can be rewarding. The speaker also highlights the value of interdisciplinary learning and the fresh perspectives that can come from outside one's field of expertise.

The talk concludes with an interactive Q&A session where the audience poses questions about learning techniques, the application of math in everyday life, and strategies for teaching children. The speaker provides thoughtful insights and advice, emphasizing the importance of practice, repetition, and real-life application in learning.