Methods of Learning

The past week we discussed in class the different methods of learning. There are generally two types, or at least two types we focused on. These were Transmission and The Social Learning Model. We came to the realization during class that Transmission doesn't typically help someone learn the material, whereas Social Learning model helps people talk through the material for a complete and better understanding of the topics addressed. From my personal experiences, I always notice that I never really retain the information from lecture or "Transmission" based classes. I can learn the material for a semester, but after that it doesn't really stick as well. I also notice that I tend to try to memorize the material during those classes instead of truly understand it. Since I am a Communications major, the classes I've been taking my last two years have been using the Social Learning Model, and I'm grateful for that because this is the type of information that I really do need to stick for my future career. I think that Transmission method can be effective for some students, but it is an easy way for people to lose concentration during the lecture, or to not take in the information as well. However, with the Social Learning Method you are able to talk through the material and really grasp the understanding of it through communication. This makes me wonder how larger lecture classes could try to combine these two methods to perhaps help students to take what they learn with them after the class is over. What do you think would help you learn better in a large lecture based class? What other methods from the Social Learning Model could be taken and used in a Transmission based class?