Riding the Learning Wave: A Micro Lesson in Diffuse and Focused Thinking

As part of my "Train the Trainer: Understanding Your Learner" workshop I deliver at Mantel Group , I like to introduce the concepts of diffuse and focussed thinking and how it impacts the way we learn. I'll often lean on relatable examples, such as when a musician is learning a new piece of music.

When it comes to learning, striking the right balance between focused and diffuse thinking can significantly boost cognitive abilities. Focused thinking involves concentrated efforts on a specific task, fostering in-depth understanding. In contrast, diffuse thinking encourages a more relaxed, broad-minded state, promoting creative connections across diverse topics. According to Barbara Oakley's insights in "A Mind for Numbers," alternating between these thinking modes is key for a comprehensive grasp of complex concepts. By combining intense focus with moments of reflection, learners can develop a versatile and adaptive mindset.

I saw this come to life yesterday when I witnessed my eight year old daughter learn to ride a bike for the first time. She set a goal a couple of weeks ago after realising she was one of very few of her peers who can't ride a two-wheeler. We dragged the bike out of the garage, removed the training wheels and set about explaining some of the fundamentals of balance and riding, at the park next door.

My daughter rarely exercises patience when learning something new and though she had a determined focus, she was becoming more and more frustrated with herself for not picking it up straight away. Her growing frustration was leading to lots of mistakes and arguing, so I suggested it might be time to take a break and clear our head.

The head-clearing took a while as it turned out - she didn't come back to it for several days. But when she did, she was in a very relaxed state of mind. She'd had dinner, was excited that she had just yanked out a very loose tooth and was on her way to the park to play. She thought she'd bring her bike along and simply straddle it, bouncing from foot to foot on the pavement. Without any expectation, she instinctively lifted her feet to the pedals, had a little wobble and then started riding. That moment most of us have experienced happened - it just clicked!

Relaxation serves as the gateway to creative mode and diffuse thinking, unlocking the potential for profound insights and "aha" moments during the learning process. When our minds are in a relaxed state, free from the constraints of intense focus, we create a conducive environment for innovative connections and ideas to emerge. It's in this mental space that seemingly unrelated concepts come together, allowing for real understanding to take root. This phenomenon, often referred to as diffuse thinking, is akin to a mental puzzle coming together. It's in these moments of tranquility that the pieces click into place, transforming complex information into a coherent and comprehensible whole. Embracing relaxation as a precursor to creative thinking becomes a powerful tool, enabling learners to navigate challenges with a more open and receptive mindset, fostering a deeper and more meaningful grasp of new concepts.

Applying this approach is crucial in skill acquisition, as highlighted by psychologist Anders Ericsson in "Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise." Deliberate practice, focusing intensely on specific skills, is essential for expertise. However, Ericsson emphasises the importance of integrating periods of diffuse thinking to transfer skills across different domains. Recognising the interplay between focused and diffuse thinking allows learners to optimise their cognitive processes, fostering a dynamic and agile approach to acquiring and applying knowledge in a rapidly changing world.

Educators, facilitators, and instructional designers play a pivotal role in shaping the learning experiences of their students. As part of this process, it's worth strategically incorporating both diffuse and focused modes of thinking into teaching and training design. When introducing new concepts, begin with a focused approach, engaging learners with clear objectives and structured content. This allows for in-depth comprehension and skill development. However, recognising the importance of diffuse thinking is equally critical. Encourage breaks, discussions, and activities that promote a relaxed, open mindset. These moments of mental downtime enable students to connect the dots, fostering creativity and a deeper understanding of the material.

In designing instructional materials, create a balance between detailed, focused content and opportunities for exploration. Incorporate reflective exercises, discussions, or real-world applications that encourage learners to step back and consider the broader implications of what they're learning. Additionally, provide flexibility in the learning process, allowing for individualised exploration and discovery. Emphasising the interplay between focused and diffuse thinking not only enhances comprehension but also nurtures a learning environment that fosters adaptability and critical thinking skills. By integrating these approaches, educators can empower their students with a well-rounded and agile approach to acquiring and applying knowledge.

Likewise, as a learner, whether you're a student engaged in self-paced study or an individual tackling a new task at work, recognising the value of taking breaks and returning with a relaxed state of mind can significantly enhance your ability to comprehend and acquire new skills. Learning is not just about the time spent absorbing information; it's about how effectively that information is processed. Intentional breaks provide the brain with a reset, allowing it to consolidate and integrate the knowledge acquired during focused periods.

Consider incorporating short breaks during your study or work sessions. These breaks can take the form of a brief walk, a moment of mindfulness, or even a change of scenery. This intentional pause facilitates diffuse thinking, enabling your mind to make connections between concepts and creatively solve problems. As you return to your learning or work with a refreshed perspective, you may find that the seemingly complex skills become more manageable and that "aha" moments occur more frequently. Embracing a balance between focused and diffuse thinking is a powerful strategy for optimising your learning process and increasing your overall effectiveness in acquiring new skills.

My daughter has kicked her first goal for the year and I look forward to seeing how she masters this new skill over the coming months (though I think it's time to upgrade her bike!) What's on your list for 2024?