Module 1 » Week 1 » Learning How To Learn For Youth

Q: After you "do a Pomodoro" session, a reward isn't very important.

You're right to mark this as "false"! A reward after an intense bout of concentration, like that involved in the Pomodoro technique, is VERY important. Repeated rewards help reprogram your brain so that you gradually grow to enjoy the work more.

Q: Which of the following sentences do you think is the best advice for someone who is struggling to learn abstract concepts, such as mathematical ideas? (choose all that apply)

Good job! Practice makes permanent! Even if you are not “naturally good” at something, that shouldn't prevent you from learning it. Instead of studying very intensively for a short period, the best way to create strong neural connections is to practice regularly during an extended period. If you study for an extended period you are not only using the focused mode, but also the diffuse mode when you change your attention to other subjects. Moreover, among other benefits, sleep between study sessions allows you to fix effectively new concepts.

Q: The __________ mode involves a direct approach to solving problems using rational, sequential, analytical approaches. It is associated with the concentrating abilities of the brain’s prefrontal cortex, located right behind your forehead.

That’s right! The focused mode is about the direct approach to solving problems.

Q: Learning changes the structure of the brain.

Yes! Learning does change brain structure.

Q: It's quite common to get stuck on a problem. Which of the following is the best step to take when you've already spent time rethinking the problem by focusing hard, and you find that you are simply stuck?

Taking a little break is a good idea. Taking your attention off of what you want to solve helps allow other neural modes to have access to the material. You won't be conscious of your brain continuing to work in the background on the problem--but it is!