The Science of Learning: Using Neuroscience to Create Powerful Learning Experiences

The Fika Crew talks about the science of learning. Neuroscience has uncovered a few evidence-based learning strategies that improve retention and skill acquisition. These simple strategies can be used alone or coupled together to create powerful learning experiences:

• Spaced Repetition / Distributed Learning
• Retrieval Practice
• Interleaving
• Elaboration
• Deliberate Practice with Feedback
• Sleep

Resources

Sumeracki MA, Weinstein Y. Six strategies for effective learning. Acad Med 2018; 94 (4): 666.

Van Hoof TJ, Madan CR, Sumeracki MA. Science of Learning Strategies Series. Journal of Continuing Education in the Health Professions (JCEHP).

• Distributed Practice. JCEHP 2021; 41(1): 59-62.

• Retrieval Practice. JCEHP 2021; 41(2): 119-123.

• Interleaving. JCEHP 2022; 42(4): 265-268.

• Elaboration. JCEHP 2024; October 15, 2024

• Incentivizing Sleep. JCEHP 2024; 44(4): 277-281.

• Application to Educational Meetings. JCEHP 2024; 44 (4): 273-276.

Pleins D. Applying principles from neuroscience to foster learning—four strategies. The Scholarly Teacher. November 7, 2024.

Sketchy - educational tool for building visual stories and symbols. https://www.sketchy.com

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The Pharmacy Fika podcast is a positive and compassionate “place” (a virtual community) where pharmacy and other health professions educators gather to discuss teaching, learning, scholarship, and academic life… plus the snacks that support their best work. So grab your favorite beverage and listen to the Pharmacy Fika podcast with your colleagues.

The Co-Hosts are:

• Stuart T. Haines (Executive Producer), University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy – sthaines@olemiss.edu               
• Tina Brock, University of Melbourne Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences - tina.brock@unimelb.edu.au
• Jeff Cain, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy - jeff.cain@uky.edu 
• Kristin Janke, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy - janke006@umn.edu

Disclaimer (inspired by Whad’Ya Know?): All opinions expressed on the Pharmacy Fika podcast are well-reasoned and insightful. Needless to say, they are ours and our guests alone, and not those of our employing institutions.

Even though we don’t accept advertising and don’t have any sponsors, we seem to mention Trader Joe’s snacks and various water-based drinks a LOT.

Not sure what fika is all about?  Watch this brief video:  How a Swedish coffee break can boost your wellbeing and performance.

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