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Cognitive cross-training enhances learning, study finds

A comprehensive new study from University of Illinois researchers found that combining physical exercise and mild electric brain stimulation with computer-based cognitive training promotes skill learning significantly more than using cognitive training alone. The enhanced learning was skill-specific and did not translate to general int...

How do toddlers learn best from touchscreens?

A study found that toddlers learn best from touchscreens through simple interactions like watching, with older children benefiting more. Researchers recommend app developers to tailor interactivity to individual needs, avoiding distractions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 8, 2017

You're not too old to learn that

A new theory published in the journal Human Development proposes that adults can learn new skills and combat cognitive aging by adopting broad learning strategies similar to those used in infancy. By embracing open-minded learning, individualized scaffolding, growth mindset, forgiving environment, serious commitment to learning, and le...

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalHuman Development·DateMay 3, 2017

Thinking strategically about study resources boosts students' final grades

College students who participated in a self-administered intervention prompting them to reflect about their use of classroom resources had final grades significantly higher than their peers. The intervention involved reflecting on how to use learning resources effectively, leading to better performance and reduced negative emotion.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 1, 2017

Helping students learn by sketching

Researchers at Northwestern University developed Sketch Worksheets, a software that analyzes and provides feedback on student sketches to help them learn various subjects. The software uses CogSketch's visual processing algorithms and analogy model to compare student and instructor sketches, providing immediate feedback on mistakes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalTopics in Cognitive Science·DateApr 14, 2017

Research finds we can civilize punishment by learning a perpetrator's unfortunate history

New research by Lehigh University professor Michael Gill and Stephanie C. Cerce found that considering a wrongdoer's life history reduces harsh blame but doesn't change the perception of their free will. This approach, known as historicist narrative, can lead to more constructive prison systems and improved mental health.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMar 1, 2017

Robotic tutors for primary school children

Researchers developed an integrated computational architecture to detect emotional states and provide pedagogic interventions with robot tutors, aiming to improve learning outcomes. The platform was tested on two primary school volunteers, showing that children preferred the robot tutor but still required human guidance.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateOct 24, 2016

Watching the brain do math

A new study from Carnegie Mellon University reveals four distinct stages of problem solving: encoding, planning, solving, and responding. The research uses functional MRI to analyze brain activity patterns and provides insights into how students think when solving math problems.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 21, 2016

Genetics play role in character traits related to academic success, study says

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that genetics account for approximately half of the differences in character traits among individuals. Environmental factors outside of home and school environments influence the remaining variation in character, with certain personality traits driving l...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 12, 2016

Mind your busyness

A new study finds that busier lifestyles are associated with better processing speed, working memory, and episodic memory in older adults. The research suggests that busyness may stimulate learning and improve cognition, but more experimental work is needed to confirm this association.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateMay 17, 2016