Education Archives

50 Types of Mental Models for Better Decision-Making

What are the major types of mental models? What should be your focus when learning a mental model? The many types of mental models cut across several disciplines including math, psychology, economics, physics, and more. They include models like Gaussian distribution, reciprocity, autocatalysis, and opportunity cost. Your focus should be on learning the fundamental meaning of these models and not their nitty-gritty details. Read on to discover more about the major types of mental models.

Self-Teaching: You Are Your Own Best Teacher

What are the benefits of self-teaching? Do you really learn more through slow, directionless learning? Is there such thing as overlearning? In his book Range, David Epstein asserts that the slow and directionless self-learning process is more effective than structured learning. This is because when you learn on your own, you’re forced to struggle through experimentation—which ultimately leads to a better understanding of the subject matter. Here is why learning through self-teaching may actually be better than taking structured classes.

“How” and “Why” Questions: Which Are More Valuable?

Are “how” or “why” questions more valuable? Which one is more often used in the education system? Although asking both “how” and “why” questions is necessary, “why” questions are more important because they get the recipient thinking. “Why” questions are slow and difficult and increase one’s critical thinking skills. Sadly, they’re not asked enough in schools. Here’s why “why” questions are such valuable learning tools.

The 3 Levels of Engagement: Play, Test, and Practice

What are the three levels of engagement? Which level is the most effective for learning a skill? According to Angela Duckworth in Grit, the three levels of engagement are play, testing, and deliberate practice. Duckworth thought that deliberate practice was the only way to really improve at something, but many experts disagree and say that play and testing are just as important. Continue reading to learn more about the three levels of engagement, according to Angela Duckworth.

Analogical Thinking: Connecting the Unconnectable

What is analogical thinking? How can analogies be used to solve complex problems? In his book Range, David Epstein explains why analogical thinking is a valuable problem-solving tool. Using analogies can help you solve complex problems because it helps you make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. Keep reading to learn how analogical thinking can help you yield new ideas by connecting the unconnectable.

The Advantages of Extracurricular Activities for Children

What are the advantages of extracurricular activities? How does engaging your children in extracurricular activities help them develop grit? In her book Grit, Angela Duckworth discusses the many benefits extracurricular activities have in the development of grit. They help children cultivate the four elements of grit, develop high self-esteem, and improve academic performance. Keep reading to learn how extracurriculars can help your child develop grit.

Raising Children With Grit: Tips for Parents

What exactly is “grit”? Why is it important to cultivate grit in children? The trait of grit, as described by Angela Duckworth, is the combination of passion and perseverance. It’s an important trait to have because it’s one of the biggest predictors of success. If you want your children to become successful, you should raise them with grit from the beginning. Here is what Angela Duckworth has to say about raising children with grit.

Range by David Epstein: Review, Context, & Approach

Are you thinking of reading Range by David Epstein? Is the book really worth all the hype? David Epstein is a former writer for Sports Illustrated who has built his career writing about the science behind athleticism. In Range, Epstein makes the case for generalism: a broad competence in many areas rather than the extreme mastery of one. Not only does cultivating range free you to pursue more of your interests, it entails professional advantages you could have never predicted. Here is our review of Range by David Epstein.

Range: Generalists Triumph Over Specialists

Why is it better to have a wide range of skills rather than focusing on one specialty? What is the three-stage formula for becoming a generalist? According to David Epstein’s book Range, generalists do better in life than specialists. Given the unpredictable nature of the world and the fact that many specialized jobs are being replaced by technology, focusing on one specialty your whole life will be detrimental to your success. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of being a generalist and how to be one.

Why Schools Should Teach Critical Thinking

Why is it more important for schools to teach critical thinking skills rather than specialization? What proof is there that critical thinking is more important? The modern education system focuses on teaching both grade school and college students specialized skills. This is especially apparent when you look at medical school students. Here’s why schools should change the education system to include more critical thinking.