As a seasoned journalist, I recently had the opportunity to spend a day at a secondary school in Birmingham, an experience that proved to be both enlightening and exhausting. Invited by a teacher to lead what they call a “Deep Learning Day,” I initially wondered what valuable insights I could impart to the students. However, I soon discovered that the real lesson was in what I could learn from them.
Stepping into the shoes of both teacher and student, I was struck by the sheer stamina required to engage in a full day of intensive learning, whether on the delivering or receiving end. The students’ ability to maintain focus and absorb information throughout the day left me in awe, a testament to their resilience and adaptability.
One particular notice in the staff room caught my attention, outlining the various retention rates for different modes of learning. According to the information, learners remember only 10% of what they read, 20% of what they hear, and 30% of what they see. However, the percentages climb significantly when both seeing and hearing are involved (50%), and even higher when discussion (70%) and personal experience (80%) are added to the mix. The most impressive statistic, however, was the 90% retention rate for what learners teach to others.
This data provides valuable insight into the power of interactive and participatory learning, as opposed to the more passive consumption of information. It also highlights the importance of creating diverse learning environments that cater to different learning styles and preferences.
For those of us in the media, these findings can be particularly disheartening, as they suggest that much of our written content and spoken word may not be as impactful as we might hope. However, it also presents an opportunity to rethink our approach, perhaps by incorporating more visual elements, encouraging discussion and collaboration, and providing opportunities for learners to actively engage with and teach the material.
Ultimately, my day at the secondary school was a humbling experience, reminding me of the complexities of the learning process and the dedication required from both teachers and students. As a journalist, I am grateful for the chance to gain a deeper understanding of the educational landscape, which will undoubtedly inform my future reporting and storytelling.
