Self-explanation is a metacognitive strategy where you actively explain to yourself the material you are learning. This approach helps bridge the gap between new information and what you already know, enhancing both comprehension and retention.

What is Self-Explanation?

Self-explanation involves articulating the meaning behind a concept or procedure in your own words. Rather than passively reading or listening, you engage with the material by asking and answering questions like:

  • "What does this information mean?"
  • "How does it relate to what I already know?"
  • "Why is this concept important?"

How to Use Self-Explanation Effectively

Incorporating self-explanation into your study routine can be done through several deliberate steps:

  1. Active Reading: Begin by reading a section of your material carefully. Highlight key points and take notes to mark important details or concepts.
  2. Pause and Reflect: After reading, take a moment to pause. Summarize the content in your own words and reflect on the key ideas. Ask yourself clarifying questions to deepen your understanding.
  3. Explain Out Loud or in Writing: Articulate what you have learned by either speaking it out loud or writing it down. This reinforces your understanding and helps identify any gaps in your knowledge.
  4. Ask “Why” and “How” Questions: Challenge yourself to dig deeper. Consider why a particular fact or concept is true and how it connects with other ideas. This not only solidifies your understanding but also uncovers underlying principles.
  5. Connect to Prior Knowledge: Relate new information to concepts you are already familiar with. Making these connections can create a more integrated understanding and improve recall.
  6. Review and Revise: Compare your explanations with the original material. Identify any discrepancies and clarify misunderstandings to refine your comprehension.

Benefits of Self-Explanation

  • Enhanced Comprehension: Breaking down complex information into your own words helps in grasping intricate ideas more clearly.
  • Improved Retention: Active engagement with the material reinforces memory, making it easier to recall later.
  • Critical Thinking: This technique encourages you to analyze information deeply and evaluate how different ideas relate to one another.
  • Metacognitive Awareness: Self-explanation makes you aware of your own learning process, allowing you to identify areas that need further review.

Practical Tips for Implementing Self-Explanation

  • Combine self-explanation with other active learning techniques, such as summarization and practice testing.
  • Incorporate self-explanation regularly into your study sessions to develop a habit of active learning.
  • Discuss your self-explanations with peers or instructors to gain feedback and different perspectives.
  • Record yourself explaining a concept, then review the recording to evaluate your clarity and understanding.

Conclusion

Self-explanation transforms passive reading into an active learning process. By continuously questioning, summarizing, and connecting ideas, you deepen your understanding of the material and enhance your ability to recall and apply new information. Embracing this strategy can lead to more effective and meaningful learning experiences.