Do we have natural tendencies that impair our learning?

Research in learning sciences has uncovered some surprising paradoxes. While we often trust our instincts when it comes to how we learn best, these instincts can lead us astray. Here are some common learning misconceptions, and how science shows us a better way:

1. Intuition: Learning is about mastering complex skills directly.

Reality: Learning is about memorizing.

We often aim to learn complex skills by diving straight into realistic practice. But research shows that the key to mastering any skill (whether it’s technical expertise or problem-solving) is memorizing the foundational facts and procedures first. Without a solid base of declarative and procedural knowledge, we quickly become overwhelmed, and our ability to apply the skill crumbles. To make learning actionable, knowledge must be committed to long-term memory.

2. Intuition: The more learning condensed into a session, the better.

Reality: Learning must be spaced out.

We tend to think that intensive, single-session learning is efficient. However, decades of research point to the spacing effect: learning is far more effective when spread over multiple sessions, with periodic reactivations. Cramming feels productive in the short term, but it leads to quick forgetting. Spacing out learning gives the brain time to solidify knowledge and strengthens retention.

3. Intuition: Reviewing content is the best way to remember it.

Reality: Retrieval practice strengthens memory.

While rereading or rewatching content feels like a safe way to review, science shows that retrieval practice (bringing knowledge back to mind through questioning) is much more effective. Testing ourselves on what we’ve learned, rather than simply reviewing it, makes learning more durable and helps us apply it in different contexts.

4. Intuition: Learning is a linear process.

Reality: Effective learning zooms in and out.

We might think the best way to learn is to go step by step, mastering one detail at a time. But elaboration theory shows that alternating between big-picture concepts and smaller details helps us build a more flexible understanding. By zooming out to the overall structure and then zooming in on the details, learners better understand how everything fits together, which leads to better application in real-life scenarios.

5. Intuition: Learn one subject at a time for focus.

Reality: Mixing subjects leads to better retention.

It feels logical to tackle one topic at a time, but studies reveal that interleaving, or mixing different subjects during learning, produces better results. Interleaving forces the brain to make distinctions between subjects and helps learners apply knowledge in different contexts, making them more adaptable and capable.

6. Intuition: Some people just can’t learn certain things.

Reality: Personalized learning helps all learners excel.

We sometimes assume that certain learners are just less capable in specific areas. Yet, science has shown that with personalized learning (tailoring instruction to the learner’s needs and abilities) almost everyone can excel. Personalization significantly boosts both average performance and reduces variance, allowing all learners to reach their potential.

These counter-intuitive findings are a reminder that what feels right isn’t always what works. If we want to improve learning performance, it’s time to stop relying on instinct and start embracing the insights of learning science.

What’s your experience? Have you encountered paradoxes in your learning journey?