A Course in Learning How to Learn

doi:10.65961/AJELT-2026-3-001

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Asian Journal of English Language Teaching ›› 2026, Vol. 35 ›› Issue (3) : 1-14. DOI: 10.65961/AJELT-2026-3-001

A Course in Learning How to Learn

Paul Nation

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Abstract

This article describes what could be in a course in training learners how to learn. It covers four strategies, repeated spaced retrieval, learning though use, deliberate learning, and mnemonic devices. Although the main focus is on language learning, the strategies can also be applied well beyond that, and examples are provided from learning vocabulary (learning items), learning economics (subject/content knowledge), and learning to drive a car (skill). The strategies are based on three principles of learning – focus of attention, quantity of attention and quality of attention. The article includes detailed instructions and tasks covering learning, application and analysis for running a workshop on learning how learn that can be used for a short intensive course or for including as a regular part of a teaching program. The tasks are ready to use with possible answers provided.

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Paul Nation. (2026). A Course in Learning How to Learn.Asian Journal of English Language Teaching , 35(3): 1-14. https://doi.org/10.65961/AJELT-2026-3-001

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