Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning - Book reviews of Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning

'Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning' book reviews

Review for'Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning'

James M. Lang's "Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning" is an insightful and pragmatic guide that offers educators a treasure trove of strategies to enhance teaching and learning in their classrooms. The book is grounded in educational research but presented in a manner that is accessible and immediately applicable, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced teachers.

Lang's central premise is that small, incremental changes in teaching practices can lead to significant improvements in student learning. This approach is particularly appealing in an era where educators are often overwhelmed by the prospect of overhauling their entire teaching methodology. By focusing on "small teaching," Lang provides a realistic and manageable pathway for educators to enhance their effectiveness without feeling daunted by the enormity of the task.

The book is divided into three main sections: Knowledge, Understanding, and Inspiration. Each section is further broken down into chapters that address specific aspects of learning and teaching. For instance, in the "Knowledge" section, Lang discusses the importance of retrieval practice, spaced learning, and interleaving. He provides concrete examples of how these concepts can be implemented in the classroom, supported by research findings that underscore their efficacy.

One of the book's strengths is its use of real-world examples and case studies. Lang draws from his own experiences as a professor, as well as those of other educators, to illustrate how small changes can have a big impact. These anecdotes not only make the book more engaging but also help to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Readers can easily envision how they might apply these strategies in their own teaching contexts.

Another noteworthy aspect of "Small Teaching" is its emphasis on the science of learning. Lang does an excellent job of distilling complex research findings into digestible insights that educators can use. He discusses cognitive psychology principles such as the spacing effect, the testing effect, and the role of prior knowledge in learning. These concepts are not new, but Lang's ability to translate them into actionable teaching strategies is what sets this book apart.

Moreover, Lang's writing style is clear, concise, and engaging. He avoids jargon and overly technical language, making the book accessible to a wide audience. His tone is conversational and encouraging, which helps to motivate readers to try out the small teaching techniques he advocates. The book also includes reflection questions and practical exercises at the end of each chapter, which can help educators to internalize and apply the concepts discussed.

In conclusion, "Small Teaching: Everyday Lessons from the Science of Learning" is an invaluable resource for educators looking to make meaningful improvements in their teaching practices. James M. Lang's emphasis on small, manageable changes, supported by robust research and real-world examples, makes this book both practical and inspiring. Whether you are a seasoned educator or just starting out, "Small Teaching" offers a wealth of insights and strategies that can help you to enhance student learning and achieve greater teaching success.

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