The book “Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning” by Peter C. Brown provides an analysis of the research surrounding the science of successful learning. The book is divided into three sections: understanding how learning works, improving what you do, and keeping learning effective. In each section, Brown presents existing research findings, ideas and anecdotes to provide a comprehensive overview of successful learning.
The first section of the book focuses on understanding how learning works. Brown explains the importance of self-testing and retrieval practices for successful learning. He also covers the benefits of learning through spaced repetition, interleaving and elaborations. In addition, Brown covers the role of feedback in learning, the impact of cognitive illusions, the power of memory and the importance of understanding how motivation affects learning.
The second section of the book focuses on improving what you do. This section covers topics such as how to design effective lessons, strategies for developing effective practices, and the use of timely assessments. Brown provides suggestions for making learning more active and interesting for students, as well as advice for teachers on when and how to provide feedback.
The third section of the book focuses on keeping learning effective. This includes guidance on how to create a supportive learning environment, advice on when and how to stay the course, and the importance of avoiding stagnation. Brown also covers topics such as goal setting, self-knowledge, self-discipline and growth mindset.
Overall, “Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning” provides a comprehensive overview of the science behind successful learning. Brown does an excellent job of synthesizing existing research and providing practical advice for both learners and educators on how to improve learning outcomes. Through its use of theories, research findings and anecdotes, the book provides a comprehensive overview of the science of successful learning.
