Slow-Reading is The New Deep Learning: Connecting the Dots Between Comprehension and Knowledge Acquisition

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Aug 10, 2023
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Slow-Reading is The New Deep Learning: Connecting the Dots Between Comprehension and Knowledge Acquisition
In a world where speed is often celebrated and efficiency is prioritized, it's easy to fall into the trap of speed-reading. However, research has repeatedly shown that as reading speed increases, comprehension actually decreases. This is where slow-reading comes into play, as it allows us to truly engage with the content and make meaningful connections.
When we read slowly, we give ourselves the opportunity to fully process and understand the information presented to us. It's not just about consuming words on a page, but rather about comprehending the ideas and concepts being conveyed. Slow-reading is for scholars, those who are truly interested in expanding their knowledge base.
But why is slow-reading so important for acquiring knowledge? It all comes down to how our memory works. When we encounter new experiences, information is initially stored in our sensory memory. However, this input is overwhelming and fleeting, lasting only for a fraction of a second. Only a small percentage of this sensory memory is passed on to our short-term memory, which also has a limited lifespan of around 10 to 30 seconds.
To truly retain and integrate new knowledge, we need to move beyond these short-term memory limitations. Slow-reading allows us to engage with the content on a deeper level, connecting new concepts with our existing knowledge. It's through this process of association that we can expand our knowledge base and make meaningful connections between different ideas.
In a speech delivered at Stanford University, Steve Jobs famously said, "You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward." This quote highlights the importance of finding what we love and following our passions. Jobs believed that by doing what we love, the dots in our lives will eventually connect.
This sentiment is particularly relevant when it comes to slow-reading. By taking the time to engage with the content and truly understand it, we can make connections that may not have been apparent at first glance. Just as Jobs encouraged us to trust in something greater than ourselves, slow-reading allows us to trust in the process of learning and knowledge acquisition.
But how can we incorporate slow-reading into our daily lives? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:
- 1. Be open-minded: Slow-reading is not just about reading slowly, but also about being open to different perspectives and ideas. By approaching the text with an open mind, we can learn from others and expand our own understanding.
- 2. Take notes: While reading, jotting down notes can help solidify important concepts in our memory. It also allows us to revisit and review the material later on, reinforcing our understanding.
- 3. Reflect and make connections: After finishing a piece of reading, take the time to reflect on what you've learned and how it connects to your existing knowledge. Making these connections will deepen your understanding and enhance your ability to apply the knowledge in different contexts.
In conclusion, slow-reading is not just a leisurely way of consuming information; it is a powerful tool for deep learning and knowledge acquisition. By reading slowly, engaging with the content, and making meaningful connections, we can expand our knowledge base and truly understand the world around us. So, let's embrace the art of slow-reading and unlock the true potential of our minds.
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