INDEPENDENT

LEARNING
SKILLS

Memory and Learning

W H AT I S M E M O RY

• This is the ability or the power to recall and store what you have learned. Your brain's memory helps you
recall lots of memories — like multiplication tables and bad experiences.
• The word memory applies to both the individual facts and experiences you remember as well as the brain's
ability to contain it all.
W H AT I S L E A R N I N G

• Learning is the lifelong process, both conscious and unconscious, of transforming information and
experience into knowledge, skills, behaviors, and attitudes. To that learning definition I would add:
Learning is different from education – and the difference matters.
• Learning is the process whereby neurons that fire together (cells that work together to carry messages the
brain and other parts of the body to help us remember thing in response to a situation or experience
HOW TO IMPROVE MEMORY POWER

• Be physically active every day

Physical activity raises blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. This might help keep your memory
sharp.
• Stay mentally active
Just as physical activity keeps your body in shape, activities that engage your mind help keep your brain in
shape. And those activities might help prevent some memory loss. Do crossword puzzles. Read. Play games.
• Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet is good for your brain. Eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Choose low-fat protein sources,
such as fish, beans and skinless poultry
• Limit distractions

Don't do too many things at once. If you focus on the information that you're trying to remember, you're more likely to
recall it later.
• Fit in some exercise a few times a week

Exercising doesn’t only improve our fitness levels but can also help to develop a healthier brain. By running, cycling,
swimming, or whatever form of exercise takes your fancy, you can strengthen the connections between brain cells.
• Socialize

It goes without saying that socializing is a significant part of your time at university, but did you know it can also help
the way your brain performs? Research has found that having a conversation with someone, for as little as 10 minutes a
day, can help keep your brain optimized, resulting in better memory and brain performance.
• Stay organized

You're more likely to forget things if your home is cluttered or your notes are in disarray. Keep track of tasks,
appointments and other events in a notebook, calendar or electronic planner. You might even repeat each
entry out loud as you write it down to help keep it in your memory. Keep to-do lists up to date.
• Sleep well

Not getting enough sleep has been linked to memory loss. So has restless sleep and sleep that gets disturbed
often. Make getting enough healthy sleep a priority. Adults should sleep 7 to 9 hours a night on a regular basis