subject: How Better Learning Leads to Higher Productivity [print this page] I see and I forgetI see and I forget. I hear and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius
Are you familiar with the Cone of Learning Theory developed byEdgar Dale? In a nutshell the theory explains that the more active someone is in the learning of a new skill or knowledge, the more they will retain and be able to apply. Passive learning just does not have the same level of effectiveness. You might be tempted to say, what does learning theory have to do with me?
Are you a coach or consultant who needs to teach clients or teams new skills?
Are you in a leadership position that requires instructing employees or students?
Do you ever try to learn a new skill or improve an old one yourself?
Most likely unless you are living in a cave with no desire to move beyond your current level ofhomeostasis, the answer is yes. Of course you want growth, learning and development.
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Cone of Learning Theory in practical terms:
We remember 10% of what we read We may be able to define or list new information but that's all.
We retain 20% of what we hear We might be able to describe or explain concepts.
We remember 30% of what we see We may be able to demonstrate a skill or information to another.
We can retain 50% of what we both see and hear This is a jump to the next level. We are probably able to apply and put into practice new knowledge at this level.
We usually remember 70% of what we say Another leap at this level. We can participate in discussions, collaborate with others and start to design strategies.
We are in most cases able to retain 90% of what we both say and do This is the most effective style of learning. At this point we should be able to autonomously apply knowledge on our own, teach others, analyze effectiveness and start to create new interpretations and applications for the information.
How can you use this in your own life or business? When designing workshops, lessons, training sessions or your own learning habits try to apply the most effective method possible. Read or listen to information, find a visual, then repeat it out loud and try to practice yourself while following along. It's not always possible to implement the most efficient learning style depending on the circumstances, but just keep the principles in mind as you go. Happy learning!
