Week 1

Brown et al., (2014) state their finding from years of studying learning and memory. They found that the way we think we learn new material is not the most effective learning technique. Rereading, cramming and studying notes create an illusion of fluency. They found that when learning is hard it is more durable. Mastery can be built by using testing as a tool in all areas of learning. Using the new material and elaborating on it with past experience will better enable the retrieval of it.

Brown, Roediger and McDaniel (2014) focus on using retrieval techniques as the most effective way of learning and durable retention. They explain techniques such as active retrieval, interleaving, spaced repetition, reflection and elaboration. These are all effective techniques for learning. Testing in the classroom can give the instructors a look at ways to improve the areas identified as weaknesses. Taking just one test in class has shown improvement in learning.

In workforce training, there are many online training webinars. These webinars are usually an hour training session that can fit into the work day. They cover an array of subjects including new policies and procedures, new employee orientation, software updates, fire safety, cyber-security, workplace wellness and many more. Employees are responsible for their own learning and usually sign a document that they are competent.