“The more contexts in which something is learned, the more the learner creates abstract models, and the less they rely on any particular example,” writes Epstein. Using interleaving in the classroom can lead students to absorb the material better, apply it more broadly, and be more creative, all of which are integral for solving problems. Before you go, instead of studying two separate stacks of Gauguin and Manet flash cards, Epstein recommends you put the cards together and shuffle, so they will be interleaved.

For example, say that you want to go to a museum and identify a painter by his work-like Gauguin versus Manet. To develop more flexible knowledge, Epstein recommends learning various subjects, skills, or methods at a time, an approach that researchers refer to as “interleaving.” When students are presented with varying examples to illustrate a particular concept, they can make generalizations more easily and apply what they’ve learned to material they have never encountered before. This type of practice can lead students to get more answers right, but have a low level of understanding. A common trend in the classroom, says Epstein, is “blocked” practice, or practicing similar problems on repeat. In an academic setting, he writes, learning in a fast and easy fashion can make information harder to retain, while struggling to work through difficult problems is important for long-term memory. “Mental meandering and personal experimentation are sources of power,” Epstein says, “and head starts are overrated.”Ī six-day workshop to transform teachers' understanding of themselves and their students But replacing intensive training with an approach focused on curiosity, creativity, and experimentation is what often leads to permanent growth instead of short-lived success.

It’s true that specializing at a young age can push children ahead of the curve temporarily, he writes.

Why generalists succeedĮpstein describes the benefits of sacrificing depth for breadth for children learning music, sports, math, and art college graduates trying to find their way mid-career professionals searching for a change and would-be retirees trying to find a new vocation. That means becoming a generalist-someone who can embrace diverse experiences and perspectives-may be more necessary than ever. Unfortunately, the latter are more prevalent in the complex, rapidly changing world in which we live. However, specializing can hinder success in “wicked environments,” where there is less repetition and more randomness. From the GGSC to your bookshelf: 30 science-backed tools for well-being.

Generalist in a specialized world