Various mistakes can be made when learning, which can significantly impair the learning process. One common mistake is procrastination, i.e. constantly putting off learning tasks until the last minute. Equally problematic is passive rather than active learning, where information is only absorbed superficially without really processing it. Irregular learning, where you only study the material shortly before exams, is also counterproductive. A lack of organisation and structure in the learning process can lead to excessive demands and inefficiency. Constant distractions, such as frequent smartphone checking, interrupt the learning flow and reduce concentration. Many learners also make the mistake of taking on too much at once without taking sufficient breaks. Choosing an unsuitable learning style and a lack of self-reflection on their own learning methods can also hinder progress. People also often make the mistake of simply memorising content instead of really understanding it and putting it into context. Finally, the importance of regular repetition and a healthy lifestyle for successful learning is often underestimated. Avoiding these mistakes and developing good study habits are crucial for effective and sustainable learning.
There are numerous learning strategies that are passed on from generation to generation. These incorrect learning strategies are passed on from parents to their children and from teachers to their pupils. This is not done with bad intentions, but simply because the people concerned have little idea of the psychological basis of learning. Many believe that repeated reading of a text leads to the content of a text being memorised.
Some of the most important incorrect learning strategies that should therefore be avoided are
- Passive reading: Simply reading through texts without actively interacting or processing the material often leads to superficial understanding and poorer knowledge acquisition.
- Excessive highlighting or underlining: Over-marking or underlining passages of text can lead to not really understanding the content, but only superficially labelling without effectively processing the material.
Multitasking: Doing several tasks at the same time can impair concentration and learning, as attention is divided and the - efficiency of the learning process is reduced.
- Learning too late or too fast: Putting off learning until the last minute or working through content too quickly often leads to superficial understanding and poor recall of what has been learnt.
- Lack of self-testing: A lack of self-testing and repetition can lead to a failure to actively recapitulate and consolidate what has been learnt, which in turn can lead to faster forgetting.
It is important to recognise and avoid these incorrect learning strategies in order to learn more effectively and achieve better results. Instead, active learning methods such as regular repetition, self-tests, summarising and applying what has been learned should be favoured.