Hannah-Joy Simms Hannah-Joy Simms

Study Less, Learn More? Yes, Actually.

Study less, learn more? Turns out, it’s possible—if you get the timing right. This post breaks down the science behind adaptive practice, memory, and smart review scheduling based on research from Dr. Philip Pavlik (and my own work in the Optimal Learning Lab!).

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Hannah-Joy Simms Hannah-Joy Simms

Learning a Language on YouTube? Cognitive Science Says This Is How You Should Do It

YouTube might be your go-to language tutor—but are you using it effectively? This post unpacks new cognitive science research from Dr. Shelbi Kuhlmann on how students really learn from videos. From pausing and rewinding to speed-watching and self-testing, learn how your video habits can either boost or block your language progress

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Hannah-Joy Simms Hannah-Joy Simms

Can Language Change What You See?

Can the words you speak actually change what you see? Does language really reshape our minds, or is it all in how we label things? This post unpacks the debate through two fascinating studies that challenge everything we think we know about language and thought.

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Hannah-Joy Simms Hannah-Joy Simms

Why Flashcards for language learning work (+How to use them correctly)

In this post, we explore how cognitive psychology, memory research, and adaptive learning systems can transform the way we use flashcards. You'll learn about common mistakes, how to harness the spacing effect, and practical strategies for using flashcards effectively—especially for language learning!

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