A groundbreaking look at the science of learning: how it works both in the mind and in the classroom, which teaching techniques are most effective, and how schools should (and absolutely should not) use instructional technology. This is an essential resource for teachers, anyone interested in cutting-edge research into learning, and parents considering the educational alternatives available to their children.
As the head of Open Learning at MIT, renowned professor Sanjay Sarma has a daunting job description: to fling open the doors of the MIT experience for the benefit of the wider world. But if you’re going to undertake such an ambitious project, you first have to ask: How do we learn? What are the most effective ways of educating? And how can the science of learning transform education to unlock our potential, as individuals and across society?
Grasp takes readers across multiple frontiers, from fundamental neuroscience to cognitive psychology and beyond, as it explores the future of learning. Some of its findings:
For educators teaching remotely, online instructional tools have been proven to be a powerful ally when used appropriatelyand a dangerous impediment when misapplied.
By structuring its curriculum to better incorporate cutting-edge learning strategies, one law school in Florida has rocketed to the top of its state in bar exam passage rates.
Scientists are studying the role of forgetting, exposing it not as a simple failure of memory but a critical weapon in our learning arsenal.
New developments in neuroimaging are helping us understand how reading works in the brain. It’s become possible to identify children who might benefit from specialized dyslexia interventionsbefore they learn to read.
Along the way, Sarma debunks long-held fallacies (such as the noxious idea of “learning styles”), while equipping readers with a set of practical tools for absorbing and retaining information across a lifetime. He presents a vision for learning that’s more inclusive and democraticrevealing a world bursting with powerful learners, just waiting for the chance they deserve.
Drawing from the author’s experience as an educator and the work of researchers and educational innovators at MIT and beyond, Grasp offers scientific and practical insight, promising not just to inform and entertain readers but to open their minds.
Unlock Your Learning Potential with "Grasp: The Science Transforming How We Learn" Delve into the groundbreaking science of learning with "Grasp," a compelling exploration of how we learn, retain information, and can optimize educational techniques for personal and societal advancement. Written by renowned MIT professor Sanjay Sarma and Luke Yoquinto, this insightful book bridges the gap between neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and practical application in classrooms and beyond. "Grasp" isn't just another book on education theory; it's a meticulously researched and engagingly written guide to understanding the mechanics of learning. Sarma, leveraging his unique position as the head of Open Learning at MIT, dismantles conventional wisdom and sheds light on the most effective ways to educate. He and Yoquinto present a vision of learning that's more inclusive and democratic, revealing the immense potential within every individual. Imagine understanding how the brain truly processes information. "Grasp" unlocks this knowledge, offering readers practical tools to enhance their own learning journey and make informed decisions about educational approaches for themselves or their children. The book challenges long-held misconceptions, such as the debunked "learning styles" theory, and replaces them with evidence-based strategies that work. **What Makes "Grasp" a Must-Read:** * **Cutting-Edge Research:** Discover the latest findings from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and educational innovation. Learn how online learning tools can be powerful allies or dangerous impediments, and explore the surprising role of forgetting in the learning process. * **Practical Applications:** "Grasp" goes beyond theory, providing concrete examples of how these scientific principles are being implemented with remarkable success. From a law school's dramatic improvement in bar exam passage rates to the early identification of dyslexia through neuroimaging, you'll see the transformative power of evidence-based learning. * **Debunking Myths:** Tired of outdated educational dogma? Sarma expertly dismantles harmful myths and misconceptions, clearing the path for more effective learning strategies. * **Authoritative Voice:** Sanjay Sarma, a respected figure in education and technology, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this topic. His insights are complemented by the collaborative efforts of Luke Yoquinto, creating a balanced and accessible read. * **A Vision for the Future:** "Grasp" paints a compelling picture of a future where learning is personalized, inclusive, and driven by scientific understanding. It's a call to action for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about unlocking human potential. This hardcover edition, published by Doubleday, is more than just a book; it's an investment in your understanding of how the human mind learns. Whether you're a teacher seeking to enhance your instructional methods, a parent exploring educational options for your child, or simply a lifelong learner eager to optimize your cognitive abilities, "Grasp" offers invaluable insights and practical tools for success. Prepare to have your mind opened and your approach to learning transformed.