Author: barboakley

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley! 

Double the Learning Fun! Uncommon Sense Teaching on Sale at Audible

Exciting news to share in this week’s Cheery Friday! Audible is running a “Buy One, Get One” sale from now to February 24, and Uncommon Sense Teaching is included in the promotion! During this sale, Audible members can grab two audiobooks from the approved list for just one credit. If you’re not an Audible member yet, you can start with a free 30-day trial. This is a great opportunity to enjoy practical teaching insights or dive deeper into learning strategies—don’t miss out!

Debate, Discuss, and Decide: Try Sway in Critical Thinking!

Looking to sharpen your critical thinking skills? Our Critical Thinking for Better Decisions in the ChatGPT Era MOOC has just introduced an exciting new feature called Sway! Toward the end of the first module, you’ll find a unique exercise that lets you dive into fascinating debates with fellow learners. Sway pairs you with a classmate who holds a different perspective on topics like “Do emotions hinder or enhance critical thinking?” or “Will AI eventually outperform human judgment?” Guided by an AI named Guide, the chat helps clarify arguments, pose thoughtful questions, and ensures everyone feels heard. It’s an engaging way to challenge your ideas, gain fresh insights, and hone your decision-making skills. Ready to see it in action? Enroll today and explore the first module of Critical Thinking for Better Decisions in the ChatGPT Era to try Sway and join the conversation!

My Personal Approach to Reading Books

Recently, a thoughtful reader reached out with a great question: how do you approach reading books, especially when trying to master a topic? It’s a fantastic question, and as I reflected on my own habits, I realized that my reading style is a mix of deliberate focus and delightful randomness. Let me share some of my personal guidelines and quirks around reading—developed over years of trial and error.

On Picking Books: A Mix of Strategy and Serendipity
While I sometimes start with a well-chosen book to gain an overview of a topic, my approach isn’t always that methodical. I love downloading lots of Kindle samples and “snooping around” to see what catches my interest. It’s like treasure hunting—you never know what gem might pique your curiosity! When I’m intrigued by an area, say generative AI, I keep my eyes open for recommendations or books that align with that theme. But often, it’s a bit random, and that’s part of the fun!

Reading the Whole Book vs. Summaries
I’m not a fan of summaries—they often miss the depth that makes a book truly valuable. That said, I don’t feel the need to read every single word, either. Instead, I focus on the sections that resonate with me and skim through the rest. This keeps me engaged while still capturing the insights I’m looking for.

The Value of Finishing Books
I don’t finish every book I start—far from it! In fact, I often finish only one in five. But when a book feels foundational or deeply inspiring, I make a deliberate effort to see it through. Finishing certain books helps deepen my understanding and builds the discipline to stay committed when it really matters.

When Reading Feels Hard
We all go through times when reading feels like a slog. I’ve had stretches of months where I just can’t seem to focus. During those times, I set tiny goals—like reading just one page or a small percentage of a book on my Kindle. These little steps help me stay in the habit without feeling overwhelmed.

Additional Tips for Enjoyable and Effective Reading

• Embrace randomness: Don’t be afraid to explore books that seem interesting, even if they’re not part of a plan. Sometimes the most rewarding discoveries are unplanned!
• Use active recall: Pause occasionally to reflect on or summarize what you’ve read. It’s a great way to absorb ideas more deeply.
• Layer your learning: Combine reading with other activities, like discussing the ideas with others or putting them into practice.

For me, reading isn’t just about learning—it’s about curiosity, exploration, and enjoying the journey. Whether your approach is random, deliberate, or somewhere in between, the key is to keep turning the pages and see where they lead you.

How Leaders Can Harness the Science of Learning

My two-part interview on The Good Leadership Podcast with Charles Good is now available! In these episodes, we explore how the science of learning can help leaders and teams apply strategies like active recall, interleaving, and self-monitoring to tackle challenges and drive meaningful results. We also discuss how to avoid outdated learning strategies like passive reading and cramming, and instead focus on techniques that truly make learning stick. Here’s Part I and Part II. It’s a conversation I truly enjoyed, and I hope you find it just as valuable!

Honored to Be Named a Top Education Influencer for 2024!

 I’m excited to share some fun news this week—I’ve been named one of Mamapedia’s top education influencers for 2024! Mamapedia, a vibrant online community of over 3.5 million parents, recognized my work in helping learners and educators dive deeper into neuroscience and the future of learning. It’s an honor to be featured alongside such incredible contributors. If you’d like to check out the full article, you can find it here: Spotlight on the Top 18 Education Influencers and Experts of 2024. Thank you to Mamapedia for this wonderful recognition!

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!

• Mindshift—the book and MOOC

• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC

• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley! 

Book Pick: The Nvidia Way by Tae Kim

If ever there was a guide to turning sheer grit into groundbreaking greatness, The Nvidia Way is it! This exhilarating book dives into the story of Nvidia, the company that has become a crown jewel in the AI revolution.

Tech writer Tae Kim has penned a modern classic of business history, taking us deep into the mind of Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s iconic co-founder and CEO. The book captures Huang’s unconventional yet razor-sharp leadership style, his boundless resilience, and the tenacity that propelled Nvidia from a scrappy startup born in a Denny’s to a global tech giant.

Kim offers vivid, often surprising insights into Nvidia’s journey—how its GPUs, once the darlings of gamers, evolved into the backbone of artificial intelligence, revolutionizing industries from medicine to science. And there are deep insights about Huang’s leadership—his public accountability strategy, the innovative “flat cylinder” organizational structure, and his obsession with always staying 30 days ahead of disaster.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a manager, or simply fascinated by what makes visionary companies tick, this book is a treasure trove of lessons and inspiration. Kim’s storytelling is as sharp as a newly minted GPU, blending tech, business, and human drama into a page-turner you won’t want to put down.

In short, The Nvidia Way is a masterclass in the power of visionary leadership. Highly, highly recommended!

Localizing Teacher Training MOOCs: A Global Educational Game-Changer from Taiwan

What an exciting development in online education! A team in Taiwan has shown how to successfully “harden” a country’s educational system by creating robust online training for K-12 teachers. They took an innovative approach—adapting and localizing a series of three award-winning MOOCs, the Uncommon Sense Teaching Specialization, specifically for teacher development. The results? Spectacular! Using Uncommon Sense Teaching materials, the program has evolved to reach over 1,400 educators, building a vibrant community of over 300 teachers actively sharing resources and supporting each other. (You might wish to go directly to page 10 of the paper, beginning with the section titled “Second Iteration: Uncommon Sense Teaching (UST1).) 

Here’s what makes this even better—the creators of Uncommon Sense Teaching are eager to share their materials with other countries looking to strengthen their educational infrastructure. Their goal? To help ensure students worldwide can continue learning successfully no matter what unexpected challenges arise—whether it’s a pandemic, conflict, severe weather events, or any other “black swan” disruption. It’s about building resilient educational systems worldwide that can weather any storm.

The paper lays out a clear roadmap that other countries can follow to create their own localized versions of these teacher training MOOCs. By combining neuroscience principles with practical teaching strategies and crafting content that resonates locally, countries can build resilient online training systems for their teachers. For more details about this innovative localization of teacher training MOOCs, contact Dr. Kenzen Chen, 陳鏗任 or, secondarily, me. 

What makes this particularly heartening is how it addresses a critical global need. The pandemic showed us just how important it is to have teachers who are comfortable and skilled with online teaching. Now we have a tested, replicable model that can help educational systems worldwide build that capacity. This is exactly the kind of practical, scalable solution that can make a real difference in modernizing education systems and preparing teachers for the digital age. 

Dive into the EdHeroes Podcast!

I’m delighted to share my recent conversation on the EdHeroes Voices podcast, where we explored the wonders of learning, from neuroscience insights to the transformative role of AI in education. It’s a dynamic discussion filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and a deep dive into how we can all become better learners. Tune in and join the conversation!

🎧 Listen on Spotify
📺 Watch on YouTube

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley! 

Book of the Month

A Personal Odyssey, by Thomas Sowell. This fascinating autobiography provides a compelling look at the life and intellectual development of one of America’s most important and incisive thinkers. Sowell traces his remarkable journey from poverty in the Jim Crow South to becoming a renowned economist, writer, and social theorist. With his characteristic sharp analysis and independent thinking, Sowell reflects on pivotal experiences that shaped his worldview – from his childhood in Harlem to his time in the Marine Corps to his academic career studying under luminaries like Milton Friedman. What emerges is a portrait of a fiercely intelligent, principled, and uncompromising scholar who has never been afraid to challenge conventional wisdom. Sowell’s wry humor and keen observations make for an engaging read, while providing invaluable context for understanding the evolution of his influential ideas on race, economics, and society. This deeply personal account offers insight into not just Sowell’s life, but also the dramatic social changes of 20th century America. A must-read for anyone interested in the power of education, independent thinking, and intellectual courage to transform a life and impact a nation.

Special Opportunity: Test Drive the Next Generation of iDoRecall

Long-time readers of Cheery Friday know that iDoRecall is my favorite flashcard app. This past year, I’ve been working with their CEO, David Handel, MD, on the next-gen version. It’s now in beta, and we’re seeking 100 beta testers who’ve never used iDoRecall before. The first 100 to sign up will get three months free—no credit card required. Sign up here!

Spotlight: GiveInternet.org 

During my recent travels, I had the pleasure of meeting George Jibladze, the CEO of GiveInternet.org. I was impressed by their nonprofit mission and the meaningful work they’re doing. GiveInternet.org makes it easy for anyone to sponsor internet access, laptops, and educational resources for underprivileged students.

Working alongside partners like MIT Emerging Talent and the University of Geneva, GiveInternet.org reaches students in some of the world’s largest refugee camps and underserved communities—places like Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, India, and Georgia. Through their efforts, students gain the skills and support they need to pursue careers as developers, healthcare professionals, designers, and entrepreneurs.

A little help goes a long way, and with GiveInternet.org, even a small donation can make a real difference by providing young people with the tools they need to thrive. Let’s send a cheer their way for empowering these students to connect, learn, and grow.  If you give through this link, https://giveinternet.org/LHTL, donations will be matched up to $30,000.

Boost Your Piano Journey with Professional Pianist Monika Lozinskienė’s Practice Secrets!

Monika’s smart approach to piano mastery makes for fascinating learning.  In the video, she shares three game-changing techniques: tackling difficult passages first (like targeting specific muscles at the gym), using the Pomodoro method for focused 25-minute practice sessions, and employing mental practice through active recall. Her comparison of learning music to solving a puzzle makes complex pieces more approachable. Check out her Patreon for monthly free updates on professional piano life and catch her detailed insights in action! 

Is Speaking Multiple Languages Overrated?

Scott Young, who famously learned four languages in a year during his travels, has a thoughtful piece about whether speaking multiple languages is overrated in today’s world of AI translation. What I found particularly fascinating was his insight about maintenance – each language needs ongoing practice, and multiple languages create interference patterns with each other. It’s like trying to juggle different memory systems in your brain! Even more intriguing is his observation that while basic language skills are incredibly useful when you’re in a country, they’re much less valuable back home unless you reach a fairly advanced level. Want to dive deeper into the tradeoffs between learning one language well versus several languages adequately? Check out Scott’s engaging analysis.

When Good Intentions Go Awry: Teaching Kids About Unintended Consequences

Looking for a clever way to help kids understand how good intentions can sometimes lead to unexpected problems? As someone who’s studied the ways well-meaning interventions can backfire, I was delighted to discover The Adventures of Jonathan Gullible, a fascinating animated series that follows a castaway on a mysterious island called Corrumpo. Through Jonathan’s eyes, kids discover how seemingly helpful policies—like controlling food prices or forcing everyone to build bridges the same way—can create more problems than they solve. What I particularly love is how the series tackles complex topics like the tragedy of the commons and unintended consequences through engaging storylines kids can actually relate to. Want to explore these themes with the young people in your life? Check out this thought-provoking series.

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley! 

Book of the Month

The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World by Marie Favereau. Favereau’s fascinating work upended what I thought I knew about empires. We’re used to reading about empires like Rome – fixed, geographic entities with clear borders and static capitals. But the Mongols created something radically different: a mobile empire that operated more like a vast network than a territory with fixed boundaries.

What stood out was their pragmatic approach to rule. The Mongols mastered the art of indirect governance, allowing religious and cultural autonomy across their territories. This flexibility proved far more effective than rigid centralization would have been—and perhaps it had to be, given their nomadic roots.

Their economic achievements were equally impressive. The Mongols developed sophisticated trade networks and financial systems that created unprecedented prosperity across Eurasia. While Favereau doesn’t ignore the brutality of their conquests, she reveals a much richer story – one of administrators and empire builders who fundamentally reshaped their world.

This is a fresh, compelling look at how a nomadic society built and maintained one of history’s most remarkable empires. If you’re interested in how empires actually work—not just how they’re won—this book will reshape your understanding just as it did mine.

Dr. Terrence Sejnowski: How to Improve at Learning Using Neuroscience & AI

Our own Terry stopped by the Huberman Lab podcast this week, and wow – what a fascinating discussion about learning, motivation, and where AI fits into all of this! He explains our favorite “Learning How to Learn” insights for a new audience (always fun to hear these explained in fresh ways!), but also shares some exciting new perspectives about how, for example, short bursts of stress—whether mental or physical—can actually enhance our learning abilities. The conversation takes some fascinating turns into AI’s potential for accelerating medical research and the similarities between how our brains and large language models process information. If you’ve ever wondered how the principles we teach in LHTL connect to cutting-edge neuroscience and AI research, this episode is a must-listen! Check it out here.

Retrieval practice improves learning for neurodiverse students

Professor Pooja Agarwal, co-author of Powerful Teaching, brings encouraging news about retrieval practice—those pop quizzes and quick knowledge checks we use to pull information from memory. While we’ve known for a while that retrieval practice helps typical learners, what about students with different learning needs? After diving into over 30 research papers, Agarwal found consistent evidence that retrieval practice benefits neurodiverse students, including those with developmental language disorders, Down syndrome, dyslexia, and ADHD. What I found particularly striking was how this held true across different countries and teaching methods—suggesting there’s no single “right way” to implement retrieval practice. Teachers can adapt it to what works best for their specific students. Want to learn more? Head over to Pooja’s detailed write-up. Her work offers hope that some of our best learning tools may be more universally helpful than we previously realized.

Neuroscientist and blogger Eric Hoel adds a fascinating dimension to this discussion. He notes that spaced repetition—a key aspect of retrieval practice—creates memory-like effects in cells throughout the body: neurons respond more strongly to several spaced-out moderate signals than to one large burst. While Hoel suggests this practice is rare in schools, the reality is more encouraging: spaced repetition flourishes in classrooms worldwide that haven’t fallen for the “drill is kill” myth. As it turns out, well-designed, brief drill really does lead to skill!

Everest Memory Masterclass

And speaking of memory, big news! Nelson Dellis is now a SIX-TIME USA Memory Champion (fresh off his 2024 win), and he’s opening up a special mini-cohort for his Everest Memory Masterclass to wrap up the year.

This Black Friday, take advantage of limited spots in his memory-boosting course—your chance to learn how to never forget names, numbers, to-do lists, appointments, speeches, and more. There won’t be another opportunity until 2025, so if you’re ready to level up your memory, register now.

The Magic of Curiosity and AI

On a recent episode of the @MAGICademy podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the wonderful Jiani Wu, whose thoughtful questions lit up the conversation. Together, we explored how curiosity triggers dopamine in the brain, making learning faster and more effective—and how AI can be a clever tool to help spark that curiosity when motivation runs low. Jiani’s knack for digging deep reminded me how the right questions can uncover fresh insights and open the door to powerful learning strategies. Whether it’s using metaphors to reframe tricky topics or finding new ways to connect ideas, curiosity truly is the ultimate superpower.

Barb in Saudi Arabia

I’ll be keynoting about “Igniting Creativity: How Neuroscience and AI Enrich Learning” at the Global Conference for Giftedness and Creativity in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on November 25th.  If you happen to be in Riyadh, I’d be delighted to meet you there!

AI, Learning, and a Big Mindshift with Professor Jae Kang

If you’re curious about how AI and learning intersect, check out Professor Jae Kang’s insightful video about my recent lecture at the 2024 Oakland University President’s Colloquium! Jae beautifully captures the buzz around generative AI’s parallels with brain function and the role of neuroscience in transforming education. He even shares his personal thoughts on Mindshift and the power of embracing change. It’s a lovely reminder of how the learning journey inspires growth everywhere. Watch the video here.

Imagining the Future of Higher Education

The American Council on Education wants to help us reimagine what higher education could look like 50-100 years from now. They’ve published two essays to spark this conversation and are now gathering diverse experts and thought leaders for both in-person and virtual discussions. Their goal? To start building a better educational system for future generations today. If you’d like to join this long-term planning effort, please fill out this survey.  For questions, reach out to info.iterata@gmail.com.

Be Wary of WhatsApp Group Purporting to Be Affiliated with Our Learning How to Learn Course 

It has come to our attention that the person at WhatsApp +44 …. 538661 is falsely representing themselves as a professor from Learning How to Learn. If you are in this group, we want to make it clear that this is in no way associated with our MOOC Learning How to Learn. (Coursera is taking steps to ensure this does not happen again.)

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley! 

Just a friendly reminder that ChatGPT and the Future of AI: The Deep Language Revolution by Terrence J. Sejnowski, which we previewed a couple of weeks ago, is now available! 🎉

If you were intrigued by our earlier discussion of Sejnowski’s exploration into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence, now is the perfect time to dive in and grab your copy. This book offers an incredible journey through the evolution of AI, from its humble beginnings to the groundbreaking advancements we’re witnessing today. Sejnowski’s ability to break down complex concepts with clarity and connect them to real-world applications makes this a must-read.

Whether you’re passionate about technology, curious about the future of AI, or simply looking for a thought-provoking read, ChatGPT and the Future of AI promises to deliver insights and excitement.

Don’t miss out on this enlightening read—get your copy today and join the conversation about the future of AI!

Free Additional AI Resources for Educators

AI Hacks for Educators is a goldmine of over 50 practical tips to help streamline tasks and save time with AI. Written by a group of fellow educators, this guide covers everything from assignment creation to giving student feedback, all with simple, straightforward hacks. It’s a fantastic go-to if you’re looking to free up time for what matters most—supporting your students.

Alongside it, ChatGPT Assignments to Use in Your Classroom Today offers ready-to-use assignments that can help students build essential AI skills. From crafting good prompts to learning how to evaluate AI output, these assignments make it easy to incorporate AI into learning without a lot of fuss. Perfect for the classroom, these activities turn AI from an intimidating tool into something students can actually learn and grow with.

Songs for Multi-lingual Learning! 

If you’re raising children in a multi-lingual environment (or even if you’re not!), you’ll want to check out Vera Ignatyeva’s delightful YouTube playlist of English songs for children. Vera has created over 150 engaging songs that help develop language skills, motor coordination, and memory—all while creating wonderful bonding experiences between caregivers and children. The songs are simple, upbeat, and perfect for little ones who are just beginning to learn language. Start with her curated playlist of top 20 songs, and for even more musical fun, follow Vera on Instagram @london.mama, where she regularly posts new songs with help from her own children. What a wonderful way to introduce the joy of language learning to the tiny ones in your life!

Cheery Friday Course Reminder

Looking for ways to accelerate your learning (or help your students do the same)? Don’t miss the Accelerate Your Learning with ChatGPT course on Coursera! This course is designed to combine the latest insights from neuroscience with the incredible capabilities of generative AI to boost learning efficiency.

If you’re eager to sharpen your critical thinking skills in the ChatGPT era, check out the Critical Thinking: A Brain-Based Guide for the ChatGPT Era specialization on Coursera! This course series explores how our brains shape reasoning and decision-making—giving you tools to recognize and manage biases, strengthen logical reasoning, and make well-informed choices. The specialization dives into neuroscience-backed techniques that enhance critical thinking and introduces practical exercises to help you apply these insights in real-world situations. Perfect for educators and lifelong learners alike, this course series can transform how you (and your students) approach complex problems.

If you haven’t had a chance to explore these resources, now’s a great time to jump in!

Reinforcement Learning and a Potential Cure for Alcoholism

Traveling is remarkable for the people you meet and things you learn. In my most recent travels, I was fortunate enough to meet an old friend I hadn’t seen for forty years (yes, forty years). Her life had extraordinary twists and turns, and during one of its darker twists, with the loss of her only child, she descended into severe alcoholism.  Alcoholics Anonomous just didn’t work for her–in fact, AA’s lengthy dwelling on relapse seemed to simply make relapses more probable in my friend’s mind.  What worked?  Something called the Sinclair Method, which makes use of retraining the brain using an opioid antagonist, naltrexone, before drinking.  It doesn’t make drinking feel bad–it just takes away the “buzz.” This has been found to be successful in about 80% of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) sufferers. My friend is grateful for the past decade of life, which she would never have experienced without naltrexone. Who knew reinforcement learning could have such profound outcomes?

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!

• Mindshift—the book and MOOC

• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC

• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers

For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings (okay, a little late) from Barb Oakley! 

Book of the Year: AI’s Future Unveiled

ChatGPT and the Future of AI: The Deep Language Revolution by Terrence J. Sejnowski. Our very own Terry’s latest masterpiece is a thrilling journey into the heart of AI. From the evolution of language models to the ethical dilemmas of self-improving algorithms, Terry guides us with clarity and wit. He draws fascinating parallels between human and artificial intelligence, offering profound insights into the future of machine learning. Whether you’re an AI novice or a tech enthusiast, this book illuminates the transformative power of AI in science and society. Terry’s unique blend of expertise and accessible writing makes complex concepts engaging and thought-provoking. ChatGPT and the Future of AI isn’t just informative—it’s a glimpse into a future where AI reshapes our world in ways we’re only beginning to imagine. A must-read for anyone curious about the AI revolution unfolding before our eyes.

Education Without Borders: A Month of Global Discoveries

This past month have involved a dizzying whirlwind of presentations in Bangalore, Copenhagen, Brussels, Tbilisi, Kyiv, Chisenau (Moldova), Istanbul (twice), and Astana, Kazakhstan (many!), all giving further insights on top of August’s trip to Mumbai, Bangalore, Bangkok, Singapore, and Manila. 

Among the highlights of my travels were observing the efforts of USAID in Ukraine, and the remarkable resilience and spirit of the Ukrainian people, which must be experienced to be believed. (I spent part of every night in Kyiv responding to air raid alerts by heading to the lower parking garage of the Radisson Blu—just a minor inconvenience compared to what Ukrainians have experienced over the past several years.) As I learned during my visit, deliberate targeting of Ukrainian schools and playgrounds has been taking place—the results are heartbreaking. But the determination of Ukrainians, especially when it comes to their resolute focus on uplifting their educational system, is inspiring.  

The Kazakhs, too, deserve special mention. Their polymath, multilingual Minister of Science & Higher Education, Sayasat Nurbek, is pulling Kazakh higher education into a world-wide network of top-notch universities—some 35 branch campuses, extensions, and consortia from international institutions have been established in the last two years alone. Nurbek’s example can be an inspiration to ministries worldwide about the power of educational vision in vaulting a country forward economically. The Georgians were another stand-out in the trip—they have their own inspiring leadership in the form of Sergo Nozadze and Salome Ghachava. This dynamic duo’s work with HRPA and the HR Congress enables them to serve potentiators, helping Georgian institutions connect with and leverage global educational networks. Their efforts showcase how targeted leadership—and Human Relations expertise—can significantly impact a country’s educational trajectory.

What has been particularly interesting throughout this journey is observing the varied approaches universities take towards global outreach and connectivity. Some forward-thinking institutions eagerly embrace platforms like Coursera, recognizing them as powerful tools for broadening their impact and keeping both students and faculty at the forefront of their fields. These universities see the potential for continuous learning and the cross-pollination of ideas on a global scale.

In contrast, other institutions hold fast to more traditional models, prioritizing their established internal programs and local networks. While this approach has its merits, it can inadvertently limit opportunities for growth and innovation. Curiously, within these more conservative institutions, administrators will often privately acknowledge challenges in encouraging their faculty to upskill, with students sometimes outstripping the expertise of the faculty in cutting-edge fields.

However, it’s important to note that universities’ efforts to connect internationally are not always solely determined by their own choices. In some cases, institutions find themselves constrained by outdated governmental regulations that were established long before the critical importance of global academic connections became apparent. These legacy policies can inadvertently hamper universities’ ability to fully engage in the international academic community, creating barriers to collaboration and knowledge exchange that are so vital in today’s interconnected world.

The advent of online learning platforms has dramatically shifted the landscape of higher education. Where universities once had limited options for facilitating widespread upskilling and inter-institutional collaboration, they now have straightforward access to a global network of knowledge and expertise. This shift opens new avenues for continuous learning and development, challenging institutions to reconsider their approach to education in an increasingly connected world.

Barb to Give the President’s Colloquium  Speech November 5 at Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan

I’ve been invited to give the President’s Colloquium Speech at Oakland University on November 5th. The reception is at the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms at 11:30 am, with the presentation at noon: “Neural Insights for Dazzling Teaching in an Era of Generative AI.”  To inquire as to whether there might be a spot remaining for you to attend, reach out to Patricia Gillespie gillesp2@oakland.edu. 

Barb on “Office Hours with Elle”: From Antarctica to AI

I recently sat down with Elle Wang for her podcast “Office Hours with Elle” to discuss my journey from linguist to educator. We explored how my varied experiences—from working as a Russian translator in the Bering Sea to my time in Antarctica—have influenced my approach to learning and teaching. The conversation also delved into practical tips for using AI to enhance learning. If you’re interested in hearing some entertaining stories (including why vodka and ship navigation don’t mix!) and gaining insights on modern learning techniques, tune in to our episode “Dr. Barbara Oakley – From Antarctica to AI: Learning How to Learn” on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple (audio only) Podcasts.

AI: The Misunderstood Educational Superhero

I absolutely love Brandon Hendrickson’s work at Science Is WEIRD! While many fear AI in education, Brandon reveals its true potential as educational dynamite. Inspired by Kieran Egan’s philosophy, Brandon demonstrates how AI can speak ‘human’, using metaphors, vivid imagery, and even nonsense to bring science to life. It’s not about dry facts; it’s about rekindling our connection to reality’s inherent weirdness. Through his innovative AI-powered livestreams, Brandon shows that AI, wielded with Egan’s tools, isn’t just safe – it’s revolutionary. His work is a brilliant example of how fusing new tech with old tools can transform science education. Brandon’s approach is truly inspiring, making learning weird, wonderful, and deeply engaging!

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings to our Learning How to Learners!

This week I have a hodgepodge of observations and recommendations. Here we go!

Book of the Week

Ibn Khaldun: An Intellectual Biography, by Robert Irwin. This fascinating book provides a comprehensive look at the life and ideas of Ibn Khaldun, a 14th-century Arab scholar considered one of the greatest intellectuals in Islamic history. Irwin skillfully places Ibn Khaldun in his historical and intellectual context, examining how his groundbreaking Muqaddima analyzed the laws of history and anticipated developments in fields like sociology and economics centuries ahead of his time. At the same time, Irwin pushes back against attempts to depict Ibn Khaldun as a modern thinker, showing how he was very much a product of his medieval Islamic world – a mystic interested in occultism and futurology. The book provides an engaging account of Ibn Khaldun’s tumultuous life and career in North Africa and Muslim Spain, while also tracing how his ideas have been interpreted and misinterpreted over the centuries. Irwin’s deep knowledge and lively writing make this an enlightening intellectual biography of a brilliant but often misunderstood thinker. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Islamic intellectual history or the development of historical and social thought.

A Call for Speech Experts: Help a Young Learner at Lake Superior Academy!

Calling all speech and language experts! We have an inspiring opportunity to help a bright 5-year-old boy overcome speech challenges stemming from a mild case of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy at birth. Susie Schlehuber, the dedicated head of Lake Superior Academy (which we highlighted in last week’s email), is reaching out on behalf of this young learner and his family. While the child is receiving speech therapy through the local Intermediate School District (ISD), which provides specialized educational services in the region, Susie and the boy’s support team are eager for additional guidance to maximize his progress during this critical developmental window. They’re looking for an experienced speech-language pathologist or specialist who could provide expert advice on tailored therapy approaches, at-home activities, and/or classroom strategies to support his receptive and expressive language skills. If you have expertise in this area or can recommend someone who does, please reach out to Susie at sschlehuber@lakesuperioracademy.com. This determined little learner, his family, and his school would be incredibly grateful for your insights. 

To all our Learning How to Learners out there working to support children with special needs – your dedication makes a world of difference! 

A Math Journey for Lifelong Learners

For those looking to refresh or enhance their math skills at any age, here’s an intriguing resource to explore. Math Academy offers a comprehensive program that spans from 4th-grade level math all the way through advanced college-level courses. What caught our eye is their adult track, which could be perfect for those wanting to revisit math concepts or push their mathematical boundaries. The program uses gamification and spaced repetition to make learning more engaging and effective. Developed by the remarkable Justin Math (justinmath.com), Math Academy might be just the ticket for rekindling your inner mathematician, whether you’re looking to brush up on basics or tackle advanced topics. While finding time can be a challenge, this could be a great option for lifelong learners wanting to flex their mental muscles in a new (or nostalgic) way! [Hat tip: David Handel]

Limited Openings Left at the University of the Hesperides – A Cutting-Edge Learning Experience

I wanted to let you know that the University of the Hesperides still has a few spots available for this academic year, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. This university is truly groundbreaking, offering a unique blend of student-driven learning, active collaboration, and the integration of AI into the educational process. There is a Masters degree in Economics in English, and multiple programs in Spanish.

What makes .h so remarkable is its commitment to fostering personal freedom in learning. Students are encouraged to dive deep into their educational journey while being part of a vibrant global community. The courses are designed with future-proof skills in mind, from critical thinking to problem-solving, and the university’s global reach means you’ll interact with students and professors from all over the world. 

Additionally, the University of the Hesperides boasts prestigious endorsements from Nobel Prize winners, renowned academics, and entrepreneurs, further underscoring its academic rigor and innovative approach. The qualifications you earn are recognized within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), ensuring you meet high international standards. Currently Hesperides offers one  program in English (Master in Economics) and twelve graduate and undergraduate programs in Spanish. 

If you’re looking for a forward-thinking institution that pushes the boundaries of traditional education, .h is a fantastic choice. But don’t wait – the remaining openings will fill up fast!

The Democracy Project: Fostering Nuanced Discussions on Complex Issues

We’re excited to share a valuable new resource for educators called The Democracy Project. Developed by The Mill Institute, this collection of materials aims to help high school teachers discuss complex and often divisive societal issues in a more nuanced way. Rather than reinforcing oversimplified culture war frames, The Democracy Project provides curated articles, student exercises, and discussion questions that explore challenging topics from multiple perspectives. The goal is to cultivate democratic citizenship by helping students develop a more rigorous and complex understanding of important issues facing our society. With the upcoming election, these resources are especially timely and relevant. You can check out The Democracy Project at mill-institute.org/democracy-project.  We encourage educators to take a look and consider incorporating these materials into your classrooms!

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley (And Terry Sejnowski & the rest of the team!)

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley! (Special K-12 focus this week)

Throughout my career as an engineering professor, I’ve witnessed countless initiatives aimed at high schools and universities to boost diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. These efforts are commendable, but they often overlook a crucial truth: if we truly want to make a lasting difference, we should be looking much earlier. Why do we keep trying to “fix” disadvantaged students when they get to college, rather than fixing the underlying pipeline?  I feel the real key to unlocking potential and fostering a love for learning lies not in universities, high schools, or even middle schools, but in our elementary schools. As this recent breakthrough paper in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences asks and then begins to answer: “How can a complex neural circuit, with trillions of individual connections, arise from a comparatively simple genome? What makes this problem challenging is the largely overlooked fact that these circuits, at or soon after birth and with minimal learning, are able to specify a tremendously rich repertoire of innate behaviors.”

A well-grounded elementary school education takes advantage of early pattern- and sense-making abilities, and can make an enormous difference in children’s abilities and attitudes towards learning throughout their lives. More than that, elementary schools are where that automatic, basal ganglia system is still strong—this is the same system that allows you to learn patterns easily, with little conscious struggle. Elementary schools that provide a firm grounding in the basics (along with a diffuse mode appreciation for nature and play!) are the essential bulwark of a good education system.

Lake Superior Academy: Blending Tradition and Neuroscience in Education

It was with all this in mind that I visited Lake Superior Academy in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan earlier this month. This remarkable K-5 school is redefining elementary education by blending traditional Montessori methods with cutting-edge neuroscience-based approaches. Most importantly, children are taught how their brain learns, and the most effective ways to learn!  (Isn’t it amazing that children worldwide can have eight to eighteen years of education–and never have a single course on how to learn effectively?!) 

Lake Superior Academy is rooted in Montessori philosophy, which, as founder Susie Schlehuber points out, draws from educational pioneers like Pestalozzi, Seguin, and Froebel. As a parent whose daughters attended Montessori schools, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of this approach.

A Fresh Take on Math Education

While I’m a fan of many Montessori methods, I’ve always felt their approach to math could be improved. Lake Superior Academy addresses this by incorporating insights from neuroscience, particularly the power of the basal ganglia in learning.

Research indicates that children of Chinese immigrants often excel in math. Why? Their parents, contrary to common advice from US school teachers, emphasize memorization and fluency with multiplication tables. While manipulatives are useful to start with, math ultimately is a mental sport.

Teaching methods that don’t leverage youngsters’ remarkably strong automatic, basal ganglia-based learning system—the same system that allows them to acquire their native language—are missing a critical window of opportunity. Consider these examples:

1. Part of Marie Curie’s brilliance stemmed from the mental math her father taught her as a child.
2. The Polgar sisters’ chess superstardom was built on early exposure and practice.
3. Early exposure to language allows children to internalize linguistic patterns with natural ease.

So why do our elementary schools so often overlook this critical period of development?

Practice through systematic approaches, such as  Kumon  or Smartick, can help children internalize mathematical patterns. This develops an intuitive understanding of numerical relationships that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Importantly, short bits of gamified drill can lead to extraordinary skill! By making practice engaging and fun, we can help children develop early mathematical fluency without it feeling like a chore. This approach takes advantage of the brain’s reward systems, making learning both effective and enjoyable.

By harnessing the power of the basal ganglia, emphasizing practice and pattern recognition, and incorporating gamified elements, we can revolutionize math education. It’s time for our elementary schools to embrace these methods and give our children the strong mathematical foundation they deserve.

Implementing “Uncommon Sense Teaching”

Lake Superior Academy bases its approach not only on traditional methods but also on principles from my and my co-author’s book Uncommon Sense Teaching. They recognize the power of young minds’ automatic, basal ganglia-based learning system and leverage it effectively.

Holistic Education and a Model for the Future

Despite its focus on academic rigor, Lake Superior Academy doesn’t neglect the importance of nature and physical activity. Students also spend ample time outdoors, even in harsh northern Michigan winters, learning about the beauty and harmony of nature, and simply learning to play together.

If you’re looking for a visionary school that combines the best of traditional methods with modern neuroscience, look no further than Lake Superior Academy. Founder Susie Schlehuber and her team are pioneering an approach that could shape the future of elementary education. 

Interested in learning more or visiting the school? Lake Superior Academy’s Facebook page gives an authentic day-to-day look at the school, while their website provides a much more thorough description of the overall program.  Feel free to reach out with questions or to arrange a visit!

Books of the Month

 The Trouble with Ed Schools, by David Labaree

This month, we dug into David Labaree’s The Trouble with Ed Schools. If you are a parent or teacher of K-12 children, you will find Labaree’s book to be invaluable in helping you understand why the modern US K-12 system is the way it is. Labaree makes a clear case that American education schools are fundamentally outdated due to their lack of integration of modern scientific insights..

Dr. Labaree argues that these institutions have been overly focused on certifying teachers rather than pushing the envelope with teaching methods that are informed by current research. Labaree’s book is a clarion call for education schools to revamp their approaches and curriculum to not only keep pace with, but also lead in, the application of new scientific insights that could revolutionize teaching and learning–as with the visionary approaches of Lake Superior Academy.

The Trouble with Ed Schools encourages us to rethink how teachers are trained and challenges us to envision a future where education is as dynamic and evidence-based as the best scientific fields. 

The Beautiful Tree: A Personal Journey into How the World’s Poorest People Are Educating Themselves, by James Tooley.

James Tooley’s eye-opening The Beautiful Tree challenges conventional wisdom about education in the developing world. Tooley, a professor of education policy, uncovers a hidden revolution: low-cost private schools serving some of the world’s poorest communities.

Through extensive on-the-ground research in countries like India, China, and Africa, Tooley reveals vibrant educational ecosystems that government officials and international aid organizations often overlook or deny exist. He finds dedicated teachers and entrepreneurs running small schools that outperform government alternatives, all without outside funding.

Tooley’s engaging prose brings to life the people he meets, from ambitious students to innovative school operators. He thoughtfully explores why families living on a few dollars a day choose to pay for education when free government schools are available. The answers provide insight into both human nature and effective education policy.

While celebrating these grassroots successes, Tooley also highlights the obstacles private schools for the poor face, including hostile bureaucracies and well-meaning but misguided international aid efforts. The book makes a compelling case for empowering local communities rather than imposing top-down solutions.

The Beautiful Tree offers an uplifting perspective on addressing global poverty through education. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in international development, education policy, or inspiring stories of human resilience and ingenuity in the face of adversity.

Barb Back in New Delhi and Bengaluru

I’ll be back in New Delhi, India, speaking about “Liberating Minds: Neuroscience, GenAI, and the Future of Free Market Education” on September 23rd at the Mont Pelerin Society Conference in New Delhi.  If you’re near New Delhi, I’d love to meet you!

And I’ll be giving a full day workshop, “The Art & Science of Learning in the Era of Generative AI” at PES University in Bengaluru, India’s Silicon Valley, on September 28. To check about the possibility of attending, contact Professor Deepa S.

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!

Cheery Friday Greetings from Barb Oakley!

I have thrilling news to share! Terry’s and my book  Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without Spending All Your Time Studying has been selected for a special BookBub eBook promotion for September 6-11. The eBook version of  Learning How to Learn is on sale everywhere for just $2.99 from September 6-11.

For those who may not know,  Learning How to Learn is the book companion to our Coursera MOOC  Learning How to Learn for Youth unger learners. The book distills key insights about effective learning techniques, based on neuroscience and cognitive psychology, into an accessible guide for students of all ages. It helps readers understand how their brains process information and provides practical strategies to enhance learning efficiency and retention.

BookBub, for those unfamiliar, is a hugely influential platform in the publishing world. It’s a free service that helps millions of readers discover great deals on acclaimed ebooks. Being featured on BookBub is a big deal – they’re extremely selective about which books they promote, choosing only a small fraction of submitted titles.

This selection by BookBub is a testament to the enduring value and popularity of our book. It’s an extraordinary opportunity for “Learning How to Learn” to reach an even wider audience of eager learners.

We encourage you to spread the word about this special promotion to friends, family, or anyone you think could benefit from improving their learning skills! 

 The Certainty Trap: Why We Need to Question Ourselves More–and How We Can Judge Others Less, by Ilana Redstone.

If you’ve ever found yourself shaking your head at the latest political controversy or unfriending someone on Facebook over a heated argument, Ilana Redstone’s  The Certainty Trap is the book you need to read. With a sociologist’s keen eye and a world traveler’s open mind, Redstone unravels the tangled threads of our fraying social fabric and offers a way to knit them back together. 

At the heart of our problem, Redstone argues, is our tendency to cling to certainty. When we’re dead sure we’re right, it’s all too easy to see those who disagree as stupid or even evil. But what if we questioned our own assumptions? What if we approached disagreements with curiosity instead of condemnation? Through page-turning stories and no-nonsense analysis, Redstone shows how our thinking traps—like the Settled Question Fallacy and the Fallacy of Known Intent—keep us locked in echo chambers of our own making. But she doesn’t just diagnose the problem; she offers a prescription for change.

 Redstone’s remedy is as simple as it is challenging: embrace uncertainty. By trading the false comfort of being “right” for the freedom to explore, we can rediscover the lost art of conversation. We can build bridges instead of walls. We can find common ground in our shared humanity. Drawing on her experiences teaching, traveling, and navigating tough conversations, Redstone is the wise and relatable guide we need for these polarized times. Her writing is warm, funny, and full of “aha” moments that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. 

In a world that often feels like it’s spinning out of control,  The Certainty Trap  is a steadying hand on the wheel. It’s a book that will challenge you, change you, and give you hope for the future. If you’re ready to break free from the certainty trap and see the world in a new light, this book is the perfect place to start.

Barb speaking in Brussels as well as in Tbilisi and Kutaisi, Georgia

• On Thursday 3rd October from 1pm-2pm, I will be speaking at the “ AI in Education: From Policy to Practice” EU Policy Camp of the EVBB (European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training). 
• On Saturday October 5th, I’ll be in Kutaisi, Georgia, and October 6th in Tbilisi, Georgia, speaking for State School English Teachers.  
• On Monday 7th October in Tbilisi, Georgia, I will be giving  the plenary at the HR Professionals’ Association Conference.  

When Helping Hurts: The Paradox of Pathological Altruism

In the thought-provoking podcast episode “Pathological Altruism and Personal Growth with Dr. Barbara Oakley,” host Denise G. Lee delves into a paradoxical concept with me. They explore the intriguing idea of pathological altruism—where acts of kindness can inadvertently lead to harm.

We discuss how best intentions can sometimes yield negative outcomes, particularly when fueled by an inability to establish healthy boundaries or an overwhelming desire to be perceived as virtuous. The conversation weaves through topics of personal development and resilience, emphasizing the crucial role of critical thinking in discerning truly beneficial actions from those that might have unforeseen negative consequences.

This discussion challenges you to think deeply about their approach to helping others and encourages a more nuanced understanding of altruism. For an in-depth exploration of this fascinating topic,  tune in to the full episode.  

That’s all for now. Have a happy week in learning!

Barb Oakley

• Uncommon Sense Teaching—the book and Coursera Specialization!
• Mindshift—the book and MOOC
• Learn Like a Pro—the book and MOOC
• The LHTL recommended text, A Mind for Numbers
• For kids and parents: Learning How to Learn—the book and MOOC. Pro tip—watch the videos and read the book together with your child. Learning how to learn at an early age will change their life!