A Guide to Effective Studying and Learning Practical Strategies from the Science of Learning

In contrast with other texts in the field, which offer advice based on intuition or opinion, A Guide to Effective Studying and Learning is the first text of its kind to be based on learning research. Covering understanding, innovation, creativity, and collaboration & teamwork, this practical guide introduces readers to the actual science of learning. It uses demonstrations to help students understand how recommended techniques actually work and short format and action lists to show them how to apply the science to their own learning.

Matthew Rhodes teaches courses in cognitive psychology, human learning and memory, and mind, brain, and behavior at Colorado State University. He studies learning and memory. His lab researches the subjective experience of memory and metacognition.

Anne Cleary teaches courses in human learning and memory at Colorado State University. She studies human memory processes and their involvement in learning. Her lab researches human memory with a focus on failure to recall information when searching for a memory, or residual memory during memory retrieval failure.

Edward DeLosh teaches courses in the science of learning, cognitive psychology, human learning and behavior, and mind, brain, and behavior at Colorado State University. He studies basic encoding and retrieval processes in human learning and memory. His lab researches applied learning and memory with a focus on how to enhance teaching and student learning.

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
What Should Guide us in Learning how to Learn?

Chapter 2 SCIENCE
A Science Based Approach to Life and Learning

Chapter 3 THE SCIENCE OF MEMORY
Research Methods in the Science of Learning

Chapter 4 METACOGNITION
Understanding Your Own Memory

Chapter 5 ELABORATION
Can You Expand on That? Boosting Learning and Retention Through Elaboration

Chapter 6 IMAGERY
The Benefits of Imagery on Learning and Training

Chapter 7 ORGANIZATION
The Importance of Organization For Remembering and Processing Information.

Chapter 8 DISTRIBUTED PRACTICE
Give It a Break! Spacing Your Study and Practice

Chapter 9 TESTING YOURSELF
The Benefits of Testing Yourself Often

Chapter 10 CUES YOU CAN USE
How to Jog Your Memory

Chapter 11 LEARNING IS MORE THAN REMEMBERING
Enhancing Understanding

Chapter 12 SOCIAL ASPECTS OF LEARNING
Learning in a Group Context