Latest news with #JournalofEducationalPsychology
India Today
11-06-2025
- Health
- India Today
Why some students can memorize anything : Science has the answer
It's the day before the history exam. Inside Class 8B, the tension is thick. One corner of the room is buzzing , Neha flips her notebook at lightning speed, mumbling under her breath, repeating dates of battles and names of Mughal emperors. Next to her, Aarav stares at his book, overwhelmed. "How do you do this?" he asks, watching Neha recite a paragraph she's read just all know a Neha that student who can mug up entire chapters effortlessly. But what makes some students such fast memorizers while others struggle to remember a few lines? Scientists say the answer lies deep inside the SCIENCE OF MUGGING UP: WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE BRAIN Rote learning is memorizing by repeating something over and over without truly understanding it. It taps into specific mental processes, and the truth is, some people's brains are naturally better wired for it than others. MEMORY CAPACITY AND THE HIPPOCAMPUS Deep inside our brain is a small, seahorse-shaped structure called the hippocampus that stores memories. Studies show that when this part of the brain works efficiently, people are much better at holding onto information, especially when they learn through study from the University of California, Davis found that greater activation of the hippocampus during learning tasks leads to stronger long-term memory consolidation. This means that some students, by virtue of neural efficiency, can encode and retrieve information to this, Dr. Anshul Gupta, Senior Consultant, Dept. of Neurosurgery at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, explains: "Rote learning is actually not a gift, it is an adaptation of a weak mind to survive. There is no specific centre in the brain called a 'mugging up' centre. While the hippocampus, amygdala, and Papez circuit are well-known centres for memory, learning, and understanding, a person who is not that intelligent or doesn't have robust learning centres often relies on the most basic part of this system to make short-term memories. Through sheer repetition, this basic function is stretched until the brain retains it just long enough to finish a task - and then forgets it thereafter." His view underscores a critical distinction: rote learning is a coping mechanism, not a higher cognitive MAY BE PLAYING A ROLE TOOSome students are biologically better equipped to retain facts.A 2006 study in Nature Neuroscience found that a variant of the BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) gene enhances synaptic plasticity - the brain's ability to form and strengthen new connections. This is crucial for learning and gene, COMT, influences dopamine regulation in the prefrontal cortex and is linked to differences in working memory capacity - a key ingredient in successful rote STYLES MATTERNot all students are designed for rote memory and that's in the Journal of Educational Psychology shows that students absorb more information when it's delivered in alignment with their preferred learning style - be it visual, auditory, reading/writing, or kinaesthetic. So a student who struggles to memorize text might thrive using mind maps or through STRESS, AND NUTRITION: THE HIDDEN INFLUENCERSIt's not just about innate ability. Environmental and lifestyle factors also play a big role in memory formation and recall. A Harvard Medical School study highlights how sleep significantly enhances memory consolidation, especially after new learning. Conversely, chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which can interfere with the hippocampus and impair matters too - Vitamin B12, Omega-3 fatty acids, and iron are essential for brain function. Deficiencies in these can reduce cognitive performance and memory CAN YOU TRAIN YOURSELF TO BE A 'MUGGER'? To an extent, yes. While not everyone can memorize at lightning speed, cognitive strategies can help improve memory:Spaced repetition (reviewing material at increasing intervals)Mnemonics and visualization techniquesChunking information into manageable piecesWriting notes by hand, which enhances recall more than typingWith practice, these tools can make memory tasks significantly BRAINS, DIFFERENT LANESIn India's academic landscape, where exams often prioritise recall, rote learners may have an advantage. But not being good at mugging up doesn't mean you're a poor learner - it may simply mean your brain learns differently. Some students are logical thinkers. Others thrive with visuals or interaction. These learning differences are not only valid but scientifically supported, shaped by genes, brain structures, and education evolves toward critical thinking and experiential learning, rote memory may no longer be the benchmark of academic excellence. But until then, understanding your brain may be your best study Watch
Globe and Mail
04-03-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Storyay Launches Personalized, Serialized Story Delivery for National Reading Month
Oakville, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 4, 2025) - Storyay, an innovative children's storytelling service, is launching a new initiative for National Reading Month, offering personalized, serialized story deliveries by mail. This initiative is designed to encourage reading engagement among young learners by combining personalization with the excitement of serialized storytelling. Storyay delivers Serialized and Personalized stories in the mail that children want to read this National Reading Month. Research shows that children who regularly engage in reading develop stronger literacy skills and academic performance. By introducing an interactive reading experience, Storyay aims to help children develop lasting reading habits in a screen-free format. A reader holds a mystery-themed letter while engaging with a Storyay Gift Box. Why Storyay Stands Out 1. Personalization Each Storyay story is customized based on the child's name, interests, and preferences, creating a tailored reading experience. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology (2020) found that personalized content can increase reading comprehension by up to 40% and significantly boost engagement. 2. Serialization Storyay's stories are delivered in serialized installments, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. This approach mirrors the success of serialized storytelling in building dedicated readers. According to a Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report (2023), 85% of children say they love book series because they enjoy following characters over time, and 74% feel excited to read the next installment. 3. Tangible Keepsakes Unlike digital stories, Storyay arrives as physical letters in the mail, offering a sensory experience that enhances memory and emotional connection. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics (2019) found that children who read print books demonstrate better comprehension and retention than those who read digitally. 4. Encouraging Lifelong Learning Storyay helps children develop a positive relationship with literature that extends far beyond childhood by making reading fun and interactive. According to the International Literacy Association (2022), children who read for pleasure are more likely to succeed academically and develop stronger critical thinking and empathy skills. The Broader Impact of Reading Happiness - A study by the University of Liverpool (2021) found that children who read regularly are more likely to report higher happiness and life satisfaction levels. Academic Success - Research from the OECD (2022) shows that students who read for pleasure score significantly higher on standardized math, science, and reading tests than their non-reading peers. Empathy and Social Skills - A study published in Science (2023) revealed that children who read stories, especially those with personalized or relatable characters, develop stronger empathy and social skills. Join the Celebration This National Reading Month, Storyay invites families, educators, and media to explore how personalized, serialized stories can transform the way children read. To learn more about Storyay's latest reading initiatives, visit Lucy from Ontario, aged 10 receiving her Storyay. Links to sources quoted in this release National Literacy Trust (2023) Study on reading for pleasure and mental well-being. Reading for mental wellbeing: Children and young people's voices in 2023 | National Literacy Trust A short report sharing what children and young people told us about reading for mental wellbeing in 2023. National Literacy Trust Journal of Educational Psychology (2020) Study on personalized content and reading comprehension. Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report (2023) Data on children's love for book series and serialized reading. Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report American Academy of Pediatrics (2019) Study on print books vs. digital reading for comprehension and retention. Differences in Parent-Toddler Interactions With Electronic Versus Print Books International Literacy Association (2022) Research on reading for pleasure and academic success. University of Liverpool (2021) Study on reading and happiness in children. Can reading for pleasure improve your life? OECD (2022) Data on reading for pleasure and academic performance. Reading literacy - OECD Science Journal (2023) Study on reading and empathy development in children. About Storyay Storyay is a passion-driven project founded by a team of storytellers, illustrators, and creatives who believe every child deserves to see themselves in a story. By combining personalization, engaging activities, and the excitement of receiving letters, Storyay is making reading fun again-one mailbox at a time. Cannot view this video? Visit:
Associated Press
04-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Storyay Launches Personalized, Serialized Story Delivery for National Reading Month
Oakville, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 4, 2025) - Storyay, an innovative children's storytelling service, is launching a new initiative for National Reading Month, offering personalized, serialized story deliveries by mail. This initiative is designed to encourage reading engagement among young learners by combining personalization with the excitement of serialized storytelling. Storyay delivers Serialized and Personalized stories in the mail that children want to read this National Reading Month. Research shows that children who regularly engage in reading develop stronger literacy skills and academic performance. By introducing an interactive reading experience, Storyay aims to help children develop lasting reading habits in a screen-free format. A reader holds a mystery-themed letter while engaging with a Storyay Gift Box. Why Storyay Stands Out 1. Personalization Each Storyay story is customized based on the child's name, interests, and preferences, creating a tailored reading experience. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology (2020) found that personalized content can increase reading comprehension by up to 40% and significantly boost engagement. 2. Serialization Storyay's stories are delivered in serialized installments, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. This approach mirrors the success of serialized storytelling in building dedicated readers. According to a Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report (2023), 85% of children say they love book series because they enjoy following characters over time, and 74% feel excited to read the next installment. 3. Tangible Keepsakes Unlike digital stories, Storyay arrives as physical letters in the mail, offering a sensory experience that enhances memory and emotional connection. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics (2019) found that children who read print books demonstrate better comprehension and retention than those who read digitally. 4. Encouraging Lifelong Learning Storyay helps children develop a positive relationship with literature that extends far beyond childhood by making reading fun and interactive. According to the International Literacy Association (2022), children who read for pleasure are more likely to succeed academically and develop stronger critical thinking and empathy skills. The Broader Impact of Reading Happiness - A study by the University of Liverpool (2021) found that children who read regularly are more likely to report higher happiness and life satisfaction levels. Academic Success - Research from the OECD (2022) shows that students who read for pleasure score significantly higher on standardized math, science, and reading tests than their non-reading peers. Empathy and Social Skills - A study published in Science (2023) revealed that children who read stories, especially those with personalized or relatable characters, develop stronger empathy and social skills. Join the Celebration This National Reading Month, Storyay invites families, educators, and media to explore how personalized, serialized stories can transform the way children read. To learn more about Storyay's latest reading initiatives, visit Lucy from Ontario, aged 10 receiving her Storyay. Links to sources quoted in this release National Literacy Trust (2023) Study on reading for pleasure and mental well-being. A short report sharing what children and young people told us about reading for mental wellbeing in 2023. National Literacy Trust Journal of Educational Psychology (2020) Study on personalized content and reading comprehension. Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report (2023) Data on children's love for book series and serialized reading. Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report International Literacy Association (2022) Research on reading for pleasure and academic success. University of Liverpool (2021) Study on reading and happiness in children. Can reading for pleasure improve your life? Science Journal (2023) Study on reading and empathy development in children. About Storyay Storyay is a passion-driven project founded by a team of storytellers, illustrators, and creatives who believe every child deserves to see themselves in a story. By combining personalization, engaging activities, and the excitement of receiving letters, Storyay is making reading fun again-one mailbox at a time. 403 879 9272
