Self-Explanation

Definition

Self-explanation is a cognitive process where learners articulate their understanding of material, often by explaining it in their own words. This technique helps to bridge gaps in comprehension and enhances the integration of new information with existing knowledge, making it a valuable tool for improving language comprehension and learning overall.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-explanation encourages deeper processing of information, leading to better retention and understanding compared to passive learning methods.
2. This technique can be particularly effective in language comprehension as it allows learners to clarify ambiguities and reinforce their grasp of complex concepts.
3. Self-explanation has been shown to improve problem-solving skills by prompting learners to break down problems into more manageable parts.
4. It can be used in various contexts, such as reading comprehension, mathematical problem solving, and even while learning new languages.
5. Studies indicate that learners who engage in self-explanation tend to outperform those who do not, as they become more actively involved in their learning process.

Review Questions

• How does self-explanation enhance language comprehension among learners?
  • Self-explanation enhances language comprehension by prompting learners to articulate their understanding, which helps them identify gaps in their knowledge. When learners explain concepts in their own words, they are actively engaging with the material, making connections, and reinforcing their comprehension. This process encourages them to clarify ambiguities and better integrate new information with what they already know.
• In what ways does self-explanation relate to metacognition in the context of effective learning strategies?
  • Self-explanation is closely linked to metacognition as both involve awareness of one's cognitive processes. By practicing self-explanation, learners become more aware of their understanding and can assess whether they truly grasp the material. This reflection allows them to adjust their learning strategies accordingly, enhancing overall learning outcomes through better self-regulation.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of self-explanation compared to traditional study methods in promoting language comprehension and retention.
  • Self-explanation has been shown to be significantly more effective than traditional study methods, such as rote memorization or passive reading. Unlike these methods, self-explanation requires active engagement with the material, which leads to deeper processing and better retention. Research indicates that students who use self-explanation not only understand language concepts more thoroughly but also demonstrate superior performance on assessments related to that knowledge. This active involvement is crucial for long-term retention and application of language skills.

Related terms

Metacognition: The awareness and understanding of one’s own thought processes, allowing individuals to monitor and regulate their learning strategies.

Cognitive Load Theory: A theory that suggests that learning is affected by the amount of working memory capacity used, indicating the importance of managing cognitive load for effective learning.

Elaborative Interrogation: A learning strategy that involves asking 'why' questions about the material to enhance understanding and retention by making connections between new information and prior knowledge.