Can You Tell Learning Fact From Fiction?


  • “Training should be tailored to individual learning styles.”
  • “We only use 10 percent of our brain.”
  • “Multitasking is as simple and efficient as flipping a switch.”

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Some myths and superstitions have their fervent believers. But unlike everyday misconceptions such as “Bats are blind” or “George Washington had wooden teeth,” these learning myths can cost you. Fortunately, trained skeptic Clark Quinn has once and for all laid them bare before the research and evidence.

Now, myth busting has never been easier. Millennials, Goldfish & Other Training Misconceptions debunks more than 30 common assumptions of good learning design to help you avoid wasting time, resources, and goodwill on unproven practices. Drawing on cognitive psychology and learning sciences, Clark equips you to challenge the claims you’re likely to hear from peers and co-workers.

Be a smart consumer, and stand behind the science of learning.

Buy HERE! (Amazon Associate link: support your friendly virtual neighborhood author.) Check out a sample chapter here!

The Myths Handout (References & Links; PDF)

Other Mythbusters (research translators).

Endorsements


Quinn takes on one popular myth after another and breaks them down in a straightforward, no-nonsense format. This book is great for the new practitioner trying to separate wheat from chaff or the experienced practitioner seeking to win challenges with well-meaning stakeholders and SMEs - or bar fights.
Jane Bozarth
Author, Show Your Work, Better Than Bullet Points, and Social Media for Trainers

Clark not only exposes common misguided practices for the myths and superstitions they are, but most important, also recommends practical effective alternatives that will make your learning programs far more effective. I love this book!
Michael Allen
Author, Michael Allen's Guide to e-Learning, CEO, Allen Interactions

Use the concise and engaging information in Clark Quinn's new book to move beyond the myths, fads, and folklore that hold us and our organizations back. One of the best benefits is learning how to analyze others' learning, training, and outcomes claims. So important.
Patti Shank
Author, Write and Organize for Deeper Learning and Practice and Feedback for Deeper Learning

This book is useful for those who want or need to investigate the truth behind learning myths, superstitions, and misconceptions. The clear structure, short sections, and solid research make it a worthy addition for anyone who cares about learning.
Mirjam Neelen
Learning Advisory Manager

Millennials, Goldfish & Other Training Misconceptions is a tremendous contribution to assist in the necessary move toward evidence-based practice for L&D practitioners and their clients. Clark Quinn not only addresses the prevailing myths, superstitions, and misconceptions in the field today with what the research says, but also provides excellent guidance for what to do instead.
Guy Wallace
President, EPPIC

Clark Quinn has provided an invaluable service to our profession with this incredibly useful book. He's not only explained the issues with numerous myths and beliefs, but also takes the time to give us suggestions about what we can do to make better learning experiences. It's an essential book for any conscientious practitioner.
Julie Dirksen
Author, Design for How People Learn

Reviews


"fascinating look at learning and training misconceptions" - Connie Malamed (@elearningcoach)

"focused on debunking the most popular – and damaging – myths in the field" - JD Dillon (‎@JD_Dillon)

"whole-heartedly recommend this exciting, in-depth, clinical and precise work" - Matthias Melcher (@x28de)

"the definitive guide to debunking the myths" - Joe Ganci (@elearningjoe)

"Fun, eye-opening, and well structured read" - Marlena Sanchez (@mchez76)

"sets the record straight for instructional designers and learning professionals" - Learning Solutions magazine

"succeeds in translating scientific findings for readers who do not like long sentences and complex explanations. He is short and to the point." (translated) - Sofie Willox (in Dutch)

"the necessary information in a very accessible and understandable form" (translated) - Bartlomiej Polakowski (in Polish)

"Thank you for writing something that is relatively comprehensive and no-nonsense, AND a good read!" - Gail Radecki (@RaftLearning)

"a pithy, helpful, and useful review" - Paul Signorelli (@paulsignorelli)

"a valuable read for teachers, students, trainers, and anyone else who is in any way vested in the field of learning and teaching" - eLearn Mag

"has helped me more than once explain to SMEs or C Suite why I recommend taking a different approach than what they may be expecting." - Mary Cropp (@squiddel)

"highly recommend this book (job aid) for workplace learning professionals everywhere" - Harold Jarche (@hjarche)

"It’s a book that everyone in the profession should read" - Justin Brusino (@atdlearntech)

"It is an art to explain something so complicated, so very simple for every learning professional to understand. This book is a gem" - Henriette Kloots (@henriettekloots)

"It’s a quick, fun read. You won’t get bogged down in stiff academic language, and you’ll have a reference you’ll refer to again and again to debunk learning myths. Go buy the book already!" - Christy Tucker (@ChristyATucker)

"This book explains the claims, the evidence, and what really works." - Doug Lieberman

"belongs on the bookshelf of every L&D pro" - Judy Nollet

"an excellent balance between detailed analysis and enjoyable reading experience" - Tom McDowall

"a brilliant 'leveler' of some of the most common inaccuracies" -
Matty Hogart

"hits the nail on the head. Entertaining and insightful" -
Markus Bernhardt

"brilliant…Strong recommend for everyone in L&D and EdTech" -
David Verhaag

"fantastic" -
Steph Moore

"a desk reference every L&D professional should have" -
Gary Trimble

"Must have resource for my fellow learning professionals!" -
Cammy Bean

"
Anyone interested in making learning work would benefit from reading this book" - Amit Garg

"Fun and science, and a lot of learning :-)" -
Marjan Bradko

Chosen as one of the Learning 2019 & 2022 Book Club selections:

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