The Power of Social+: Connecting Learning and Community

The Power of Social+: Connecting Learning and Community

In a world dominated by digital platforms and online content, it's only natural to question whether the same principles of highlighting and learning apply to online reading. While physical reading with a highlighter has its limitations, online reading offers a unique opportunity to search for previous highlights and connect them in a serendipitous manner. It allows us to connect our own learning with others', creating a sense of community even in the solitary act of reading.

However, despite the convenience and potential for collaboration, the act of highlighting itself may not be as effective as we think. Rereading content that we've highlighted can often lead to an illusion of competence, where we believe we know more than we actually do. This is because familiarity with the phrasing and placement of the content can trick our brains into thinking we have a deeper understanding than we actually do.

The problem with highlighting is that it often becomes a superficial strategy, where we focus more on sorting and categorizing content rather than critically engaging with it. Instead of thinking deeply about the big picture and gaining a holistic understanding, we get caught up in the details. However, this doesn't mean that highlighting is completely useless. It all depends on what we choose to highlight and how we use that content later.

To make the most out of our reading experience, it's important to adopt effective strategies that engage our brains in deep thinking about the text. Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Preview the text: Before diving into the content, take a moment to set a purpose for reading. Knowing why you're reading and what you hope to gain from it can help you approach the text with a focused mindset.

2. Annotate: As you read, take brief notes in your own words about the main concepts and key words. This not only helps you retain information but also encourages active engagement with the material.

3. Ask and answer questions: Turn headings or subheadings into questions and try to answer them as you read. This technique stimulates critical thinking and helps you actively process the information.