Research shows that students who immediately tell someone the information that they learn can recall details better and for longer - useful in exam season.
Good Housekeeping, June 2017
For poetry, songs, music, lists of words in another language: It may be better learning from the end, each time finishing with something you know. So learn the last line of a poem first, then last two lines. Split music in phrases and sections for learning. This could also help with gymnastic, ice skating and synchronised swimming routines.
Brainstorming a problem? Language is good for description but bad for perception. To get a new point of view, choose a random word and juxtapose that with the target word or area. Also cultural differences can produce different ways of looking at a situation. Include Plus, Minus and Interesting points, Consequence and Sequel, and the Other Point of View in your review. Remember that Either/Or choices make for 'sharp' decisions.
Edward de Bono: I Am Right, You Are Wrong, Penguin 2009
If a baby is introduced to water before any fear is allowed to develop (easily transferred by a frightened parent), swimming never has to be formally taught, just as babies are not taught to walk.
Zen approach to learning physical skills is that you play better if 'unconscious' of how to play. Archery: relaxation, visualisation of the shot, letting go of oneself. Tennis: beginner watched coach doing 10 forehand strokes, then let body imitate - perfect except that did not move feet - had commented that coach moved feet first and tried to remember that. Can be applied to other physical skills such as golf and skiing.
Ian Wilson: Superself. Sidgwick & Jackson Ltd, 1989
