Memory &amp; Learning

Model Thinking

We live in a complex world with diverse people, firms, and governments whose behaviors aggregate to produce novel, unexpected phenomena. We see political uprisings, market crashes, and a never ending array of social trends. How do we make sense of it? Models. Evidence shows that people who think with models consistently outperform those who don't. And, moreover people who think with lots of models outperform people who use only one. Why do models make us better thinkers? Models help us to better organize information - to make sense of that fire hose or hairball of data (choose your metaphor) available on the Internet. Models improve our abilities to make accurate forecasts. They help us make better decisions and adopt more effective strategies. They even can improve our ability to design institutions and procedures. In this class, I present a starter kit of models: I start with models of tipping points. I move on to cover models explain the wisdom of crowds, models that show why some countries are rich and some are poor, and models that help unpack the strategic decisions of firm and politicians. The models covered in this class provide a foundation for future social science classes, whether they be in economics, political science, business, or sociology. Mastering this material will give you a huge leg up in advanced courses. They also help you in life. Here's how the course will work. For each model, I present a short, easily digestible overview lecture. Then, I'll dig deeper. I'll go into the technical details of the model. Those technical lectures won't require calculus but be prepared for some algebra. For all the lectures, I'll offer some questions and we'll have quizzes and even a final exam. If you decide to do the deep dive, and take all the quizzes and the exam, you'll receive a Course Certificate. If you just decide to follow along for the introductory lectures to gain some exposure that's fine too. It's all free. And it's all here to help make you a better thinker!

Learning How to Learn

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

Assimil

Assimil is a renowned French-developed language learning method that offers a structured, intuitive approach to acquiring proficiency in a new language. Through daily dialogues, parallel translations, accompanying audio, and progressive exercises, it guides learners from absolute beginner to an intermediate (B2) level. Its unique strength lies in fostering natural language acquisition, making complex grammar and vocabulary accessible through contextual immersion rather than rote memorization.

Learning How to Learn

Coursera course: Learning How To Learn for Youth

📚Books(3)

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Make It Stick

Make It Stick - A book resource

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Memory

Memory - A book resource

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How We Learn

How We Learn - A book resource

🌐Websites(7)

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LessWrong

Community articles on rational learning and memory techniques.

Supermemo

Advanced spaced repetition software with algorithms for optimal learning.

AnkiWeb

Free spaced repetition flashcard app based on cognitive science.

italki

italki is an exceptional online platform that connects language learners with native-speaker tutors for personalized one-on-one lessons. Its strength lies in providing crucial speaking practice and fostering consistency, which are often challenging aspects of language acquisition. The platform's paid sessions enhance accountability, transforming passive learning into active, conversational proficiency and significantly accelerating progress towards fluency.

learningscientists.org

The Learning Scientists translates cognitive psychology on memory and learning into practical strategies for students and teachers. It offers accessible explanations and free resources—blog posts, podcasts, and printable activities—covering retrieval practice, spaced practice, interleaving, elaboration, and metacognition.

gwern.net/spaced-repetition

Gwern.net’s Spaced Repetition is a thorough guide and reference on memory optimization through spaced repetition. It gathers essays, research references, and practical guidance on scheduling algorithms and tools (e.g., SM-2, Leitner, Anki, SuperMemo) to improve long-term retention.

humanmemory.net

HumanMemory.net is a resource focused on memory and learning, offering articles and guides on how memory works and practical strategies to improve recall and retention.

🎙️Podcasts(3)

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The Trace

Join host Sean Trace on The Sean Trace Show, where creativity and inspiration collide. Each episode features a diverse group of creatives sharing their personal stories, insights, and creative processes to help you ignite your own spark of inspiration. With a focus on authenticity, resilience, abundance, and health, Sean's goal is to help you discover your own unique journey and empower you to live a more inspired life. So tune in and get ready to be inspired.

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Forgetting Weekly

Purple Heart Records