Sponsored by iSpring

Feeling like your brain is a hamster wheel of information? You’re not alone! This week, we've got some things to help you tackle the digital deluge. From AI assistants that do make research more efficient to science-backed learning tips, there is something for everyone.

Thanks for reading!

📰 News & Notes

How I use Notebook LM: Google's Killer AI Note-Taking & Research Assistant

In this informative introduction to Google's NotebookLM by Ross Stevenson, he demonstrates how it can be used to consolidate and analyze various data sources. Its features, such as note organization, comparative analysis, and automated document generation, make it perfect for creating study guides, FAQs, and more. L&D pros can use it to streamline their research, content development, and project management.

🎯 Take away: Google’s NotebookLM is a valuable tool for L&D professionals, simplifying data management, research, and content creation.

Why are we suckers for Astrology, the Meyers-Briggs, and other shaky psychology tests?

Attention instructional designers: resist the allure of personality tests! While the Myers-Briggs might seem like a magical sorting hat for your learners, its scientific validity is about as reliable as astrology. Sure, people enjoy being labeled as "visionary masterminds" or "compassionate facilitators," but these categories are more marketing than science. The Big Five personality traits offer more accuracy, but even they struggle to capture the nuances of individual learners. Remember, slapping labels on learners might be tempting, but it's no substitute for effective instructional design.

🎯 Take away: Don't let pop psychology stereotypes dictate your instructional design – your learners are more complex than a four-letter code or zodiac sign.

Learning 101: The Untaught Basics

This paper by Junaid Qadir and Muhammad Ali Imran addresses the reason why most people forget so much of what they learn so quickly. It's not their fault; it's their learning strategies. Research shows that the best way to learn is through challenging methods, not easy ones. Embracing challenges, spacing out study sessions, and varying study techniques are effective ways to improve learning. It's important to remember that feeling confident doesn't always indicate true understanding. Therefore, it's better to avoid taking the easy way out and start learning the right way.

 Take away: The best learning is hard, not easy.

🧰 Tech Tools & Tips

If tools are your jam, check out my new Work Smarter newsletter.

🎧 Podcast

This is the conversation that caught my ear this week. Check out previous episodes in the Friday Finds podcast playlist.

sponsored

Are your retail staff getting the training they need to excel?

Download our free expert guide, packed with L&D insights on the biggest mistakes retail businesses make when training their frontline employees. Discover how these missteps affect your bottom line and get step-by-step instructions on building an effective, results-driven online training strategy with an LMS.

🧳 Where’s Mike?

• DevLearn, Las Vegas, November 5-8

• 5th Annual Design for Deeper Learning Fall Series, November 14 (Online)

• From Boring to Bravo: How to Be a Slide Design Superstar, November 19 ATD Rhode Island (Online and only $10)

Like this post? Share it with someone you love. Don't like it? Share it with someone you don't!

Friday Finds is an independent publication that I produce in my free time. You can support my work by sharing it with the world, booking an advertising spot, or buying me a coffee.