According to the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve, our memory is like a sieve, since we forget almost half of what we have learned in the first 20 minutes.
Of course, you can improve your learning results through repetition, which is quite a common method in language teaching. However, you cannot remember random abstract information, and repetition is a stressful process. The more you try to memorize new words by repetition, the more stress you will have, and the more stressed you are, the less information you will be able to absorb.
The most efficient process of memorization is for the whole brain to learn and establish links and associations.
Our word memory can be modeled as a Google grid in which each dot represents a different word, each linked to words and associations that relate to it. To memorize new words we must create more associations and images that help us remember. This is known as memory by association and this method is well presented by Tony Buzan in his Mind-mapping. We can create connections using links, mental images, images, colors, sounds, emotions, and associations. We can use mind maps or create a story with new words and phrases. We can link new words to different phrases, images, stories, and associations. By creating more associations, it is easier for your brain, your subconscious mind, to absorb the new information and it is easier for you to memorize these words and phrases.
Whole brain learning
Whole brain learning is an instructional approach derived from neurolinguistic descriptions of the functions of the left and right hemispheres of the brain in which the learner establishes connections that take advantage of both cerebral hemispheres and thus make the learning process be much more productive.
The left hemisphere deals with logical and analytical skills. The right hemisphere is the center of visual and artistic abilities. Many language instructors believe that left brain learning strategies are effective and therefore place the emphasis only on strategies that engage only the left brain hemisphere. Some examples are pronunciation exercises, dialogues and grammar exercises. Evidence shows that second language learners who worked their way through traditional language courses succeeded only because they were able to naturally switch from left to right brain. However, most students in traditional language classes struggle with language learning and find it difficult. This is also one of the reasons why adult learners often give up and fail in second language classes.
In whole brain learning, students are encouraged to visualize, imagination being considered the foundation for understanding. For this reason, teachers use storytelling, images and animations. For example, new vocabulary words can be introduced by constructing a story or a play. Students can even act out the meanings of words or construct their own stories. Furthermore, physical activity is involved in whole-brain learning, which means that learners are encouraged to use the language in a meaningful social context, for example in role-playing, problem-solving, etc. By switching between the left and right brain hemispheres, learners create more associations and bonds and thus improve their long-term memory and acquire language naturally.
Reduce anxiety and stress
Another aspect of whole brain teaching is managing the emotional climate, reducing anxiety and stress. Instruction enhances the learning experience with soothing music and colors. Research results have confirmed that in a relaxed state of mind you will memorize new words more easily. Teachers can play music while reading the words and definitions, leaving time for listeners to draw pictures of the words. The teacher then uses guided meditation to create a relaxed state that contains memories of success before listeners hear the words and definitions again.
When you use calming sounds with brain wave entrainment technology that stimulates your alpha brain waves, you will be more relaxed and help enhance your creative visualization. This puts your brain into a creative thinking mode, as the lower brain waves increase your ability to think creatively. It is also known that in alpha, we can close the gap from our conscious level to our subconscious level, which means that your conscious and subconscious mind are both learning.
Therefore, to learn faster and with better results, you need to reduce stress and engage your whole brain in the learning process by building bonds and associations.