Which learning strategy do you find most effective
in the age of AI?
Dr. Lea Mazor, The Hebrew University
Introduction: "The beginning of wisdom is to acquire wisdom" (Proverbs 4:7)
The Book of Proverbs praises wisdom and its dissemination (Proverbs 1:20). The beginning of wisdom is knowing how to acquire it, and the following constitutes a toolkit for improving one's ability to acquire wisdom through the judicious use of generative AI tools (Artificial Intelligence that can create new content instead of just analyzing or classifying existing information). This content is intended for learners across the entire educational continuum—from elementary school to high academic education and beyond—and for teachers who can draw principles from it to benefit their students. The learning strategies proposed below are based on well-tested pedagogical principles and consider the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the current technological revolution.
Tags: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Learning Strategies, Prompt (Prompt Engineering), Learning Styles, Critical Thinking, Time Management, Tips for Successful Learning.
1. Mental and Emotional Foundation for Learning
1.1 Internal Motivation as a Central Lever Research in educational psychology indicates that learning with deep personal meaning is more enduring and long-lasting. To this end, it is recommended to ask yourself: Why is this topic relevant to my personal world? What can I achieve by mastering it? How does it connect to my long-term goals?
1.2 Self-Belief and Increasing the Perception of Efficacy A Growth Mindset contributes to increased motivation and academic performance. Recognize your ability to develop and improve your understanding, even in areas where you initially feel difficulty. A positive attitude toward the learning process improves information absorption and deepens understanding.
1.3 Intellectual Curiosity and the Search for Meaning Material that sparks interest, is intellectually challenging, and demands critical thinking is internalized more deeply. Look for the "spark" in every field—the interesting question, the open problem, the connection to real life.
1.4 Optimization of Arousal Level Moderate stress can improve alertness and performance (in the area of "positive pressure"), while excessively high stress can impair cognitive function and memory. High stress is also created by the expectation of perfection, and therefore it is useful to remember the saying: "It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to neglect it" (Pirkei Avot 2:16). It is important to identify your personal optimal stress level and develop emotional regulation strategies.
2. Research-Based Learning Strategies
2.1 Personalization According to Learning Styles Current research suggests that while scientific evidence is limited for the traditional "learning styles" theory, self-awareness of the strategies that work for us (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.) can improve the learning process. Try different approaches and identify the ones most suitable for you.
2.2 Anchoring in Existing Knowledge and Interdisciplinary Connection Meaningful internalization occurs when new information is integrated into the existing knowledge network in long-term memory. Build "semantic networks": link new concepts to prior knowledge, seek connections between different fields, and create analogies to familiar contexts.
2.3 Multimodal Encoding The more diverse sensory and cognitive channels are involved, the deeper and more accessible the memory traces are:
Visual Channel: Use of mind maps, infographics, color coding, and schematic illustrations.
Verbal-Linguistic Channel: Oral explanation of concepts, discussion with others, reflective writing.
Kinesthetic Channel: Physical activity accompanied by mental rehearsal, physical or digital manipulation of objects.
Mnemonics and Associative Connections: Use of acronyms, songs, stories, or surprising visual associations.
2.4 Integrating AI Tools as a Personalized Learning Assistant AI as a virtual private tutor: AI tools can be used to:
Receive alternative explanations for complex concepts at various difficulty levels.
Create targeted practice questions with gradual difficulty.
Receive immediate feedback on assignments and drafts.
Generate structured summaries of extensive materials.
3. Management of Learning Conditions
3.1 Time Planning and Procrastination Procrastination is one of the most common obstacles to effective learning. Recommended strategies:
Task Segmentation: Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable units.
The Pomodoro Technique: Focused learning cycles (e.g., 25 minutes) alternating with short breaks.
Realistic Timetable: Allocate time accurately based on prior experience, not excessive optimism.
AI Time Management Tools: Use automated planning tools to create a schedule or reminders.
3.2 Optimization of the Physical Environment The learning environment directly affects concentration and performance:
Lighting: Prefer natural light or high-quality artificial lighting.
Ergonomics: Maintain correct posture to prevent physical fatigue.
Location: Choose a place that suits you personally—library, home, coffee shop (depending on the type of learning and preferred noise level).
Distractions: Minimize distracting stimuli (close unnecessary tabs, silence notifications).
3.3 Attention to Basic Physiological Conditions While it is said about Torah study, "You shall meditate on it day and night" (Joshua 1:8), this is, of course, an ideal that no human being is capable of fully fulfilling. Study requires consideration of basic physiological conditions: An active brain depends on physiological resources:
Ventilation: Staying in a well-ventilated environment improves alertness and attention.
Hydration: Regular drinking is essential for optimal functioning.
Nutrition: Balanced meals support cognitive functions.
Movement: Short breaks for stretching or walking improve blood flow to the brain.
Sleep: 7-9 hours of quality sleep are critical for the consolidation of memories and learning.
4. The Social and Critical Dimension in Learning
4.1 In Praise of Collaborative Learning "Appoint for yourself a teacher and acquire a friend" (Pirkei Avot 1:6), meaning a friend for shared learning. "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor" said Kohelet (Ecclesiastes 4:9). If this advice is applied to learning processes, it can be said that learning with others has an advantage because two people can perform more work and achieve better results than one person alone, provided, of course, that their mutual time is focused and organized and does not drift into matters distracting from the completion of the task. In Proverbs, it is said, "Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend" (27:17). This likens the mutual influence people have on each other, particularly in the context of learning, discussion, and friendship. The Sages interpret this in the context of Chavruta (study partnership): "Just as this iron sharpens its fellow, so two scholars sharpen each other in Halakha (Jewish Law)" (Taanit 7a). Do not hesitate to ask for help from teachers, colleagues, and even students, as it is said, "I have learned much Torah from my teachers, more from my colleagues, and more than all from my students" (Taanit 7a), "Who is wise? One who learns from every man" (Pirkei Avot 4:1), "...nor does the bashful person learn" (Mishnah Avot 2:5).
4.2 Critical Thinking and Source Verification In the age of information abundance, information literacy is an essential skill. Check the credibility of sources (Who is the author? What is the possible bias?). Remember that AI models may produce incorrect or biased information. It is mandatory to verify every claim from reliable academic sources (textbooks, peer-reviewed articles, teachers). Treat AI as a "drafting assistant" and not as a final source of truth. Compare different sources to identify contradictions or biases. "If I am not for myself, who will be for me?" (Pirkei Avot 1:14).
5. Artificial Intelligence: A Human-Technological Partnership for Learning
5.1 The Principle of Complementary Partnership Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool and not a substitute for human thinking. The distinction is crucial:
Areas of AI Superiority: Mass data processing at speed; pattern and correlation identification; summarizing and reprocessing information; creating initial drafts; automation of repetitive tasks.
Areas of Human Superiority: Original creative thinking; ethical judgment; emotional and social intelligence; complex decision-making under uncertainty; understanding cultural and multi-dimensional context.
5.2 Strategies for Smart Use of AI
Principle 1: AI as an Accelerator, Not a Shortcut Use AI to speed up processes (e.g., preparing a first draft, summarizing long materials), but invest the saved time in deepening, critical processing, and original creation.
Principle 2: Transparency and Academic Responsibility In an academic setting, consult your institution regarding the policy for AI use. Always explicitly state where you used the tool, similar to how one cites another source.
Principle 3: Developing "Prompt Engineering" Skills The quality of the AI output depends on the quality of the instruction. Learn to formulate clear and detailed prompts. Improve the prompt gradually based on the results.
Principle 4: Active Learning, Avoiding Passive Consumption Do not settle for taking AI results as they are. Ask questions, challenge, compare, connect, add—make yourselves active partners in the process, not passive consumers.
5.3 Summary: AI Assists – Humans Lead Artificial intelligence generates drafts – humans generate meaning. Artificial intelligence identifies patterns – humans understand contexts. Artificial intelligence suggests – humans decide, judge, create, and are responsible.
Strengthen your unique human skills—critical thinking, creativity, empathy, moral judgment, and a holistic perspective—while utilizing AI tools as accelerators and capacity expanders.
Conclusion Effective learning in the age of Artificial Intelligence requires a judicious combination of research-based pedagogical strategies with the smart utilization of advanced technological tools. The key is a complementary partnership: AI as a powerful assistant, and the human as the guide, critic, and creator. Develop the skills that only humans can provide—and together with the technological tools, you will be able to reach new heights of learning and academic achievement.
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