“Make it Stick: The Science of Successful Learning”- Peter C. Brown
This is an extraordinary book which examines the science of the conditions in which learning takes place. Many of its conclusions expose the shortcomings of well-established teaching techniques, which turn out to be less effective than has long been assumed. Interestingly, the strategies which learners liked most, and believed were most effective, often turn out to be inferior to other methods. Teachers who used conventional approaches were rated more highly by students, though material learned in these circumstances was often difficult to recall.
The authors list a series of techniques, which are supported by research which demonstrates their effectiveness. Recall, understanding and the ability to apply knowledge are all improved in this way. Practical examples are described of these methods in a variety of environments
This book will be of interest to all teachers, and others who are involved in the business of education. It is guaranteed to change some of the ways in which they deliver material, and to give them confidence in the effectiveness of the methods they use.