Self-explanatory learning, commonly known as self-explanation, is a cognitive strategy where learners actively engage with new information by articulating their own explanations. This approach helps to integrate new knowledge with existing understanding, leading to deeper comprehension and enhanced retention.
Key Components of Self-Explanatory Learning
- Active Engagement: Learners paraphrase and elaborate on new material in their own words.
- Knowledge Integration: The process connects fresh information with prior knowledge, creating a meaningful learning experience.
- Identification of Gaps: By explaining content to themselves, learners can detect areas where their understanding is incomplete, prompting further investigation.
- Enhanced Retention: The elaboration process reinforces memory, making it easier to recall and apply learned concepts later.
How Does It Work?
Self-explanation typically involves a sequence of steps:
- Reading or Problem-Solving: Engage with the material actively by reading or working through a problem.
- Questioning: Ask probing questions like “Why does this work?” or “How does this relate to what I already know?”
- Clarification: Identify and resolve any unclear or confusing parts of the content.
- Elaboration: Expand on the information by linking it to previously learned concepts or personal experiences.
Benefits of Self-Explanatory Learning
Research in cognitive psychology has demonstrated that self-explanation can:
- Improve overall comprehension and critical thinking skills.
- Foster a deeper understanding of complex topics by encouraging active processing of information.
- Enhance long-term retention and the ability to apply knowledge in new contexts.
Practical Applications
Self-explanatory learning is versatile and can be applied in various educational and professional contexts. Teachers often incorporate self-explanation prompts in their instructional strategies to help students process and internalize material. Likewise, students can use this technique during study sessions to prepare for exams or to master challenging concepts.