It's natural to feel we have a deep understanding of the world. Unfortunately, we most often don't. On the whole, we tend to think we understand how things work in much more detail than we actually do. Scientists continue to show us just how complex the world really is. And the devices we … [Read more...] about Want a Deep Understanding? First, Know How Little You Know
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Self-Explanation: A Good Reading Strategy for Bad Texts (& Good)
One of the important study skills we need in our increasingly technology driven world is the ability to learn from hard-to-understand text. Maybe you’re trying to grasp a biology textbook chapter on sexual reproduction. Or perhaps you’re reading articles on the web to figure out how to extend … [Read more...] about Self-Explanation: A Good Reading Strategy for Bad Texts (& Good)
Critical Thinking Skills: What are They and How Do I Get Them?
Critical thinking is often touted as a superior way to confront the issues one faces. But what is critical thinking, really? How is it done? Can anyone do it, or are Spock-like mental abilities required? Critical thinking is sometimes talked about as a near-mystical skill that … [Read more...] about Critical Thinking Skills: What are They and How Do I Get Them?
World History Videos for Kids
Looking to elevate your kids' video watchlist a smidgen? Perhaps add in some light reading to boot? A few years ago, I decided to read a kid friendly world history book to my children (aged 7 and 10 at the time), and settled on Gombrich's, "A Little History of the World." Beyond the book, I … [Read more...] about World History Videos for Kids
How to Nurture Persistence with Process Praise
Sure, you praise your kids. And they look at you with beaming little faces. Such a warm feeling, if only for a moment. But, is that all there is to praise? What’s simmering in the brain behind those sparkling eyes? It may well depend on the precise nature of the praise you … [Read more...] about How to Nurture Persistence with Process Praise
Learning Strategies: How to Take Charge of Your Learning
Do you feel in command of your own learning? Do you learn well with good teachers and bad? Or even if there isn’t one at all? With the wealth of information available today, you have more opportunity than ever to know nearly anything that is known. You can go out and learn virtually … [Read more...] about Learning Strategies: How to Take Charge of Your Learning