Why Don’t Students Like School?
In his foundational book, Willingham explains cognitive science research in accessible language. In his exploration of working memory, attention, motivation, and the “simple model of learning,” Willingham offers the most-quoted line in this field: “memory is the residue of thought.”
make it stick: The Science of Successful Learning
Essential reading for cognitive science for teachers. This book translates research on retrieval practice, spaced learning, and interleaving into practical evidence-based teaching strategies. Perfect for teacher professional development and understanding how brain-based teaching works.
Understanding How We Learn
Practical guide to learning science for teachers. Covers six evidence-based teaching strategies backed by cognitive science research: spaced practice, retrieval practice, elaboration, interleaving, concrete examples, and dual coding. Perfect for teacher training programs.
How Learning Works
Comprehensive overview of learning science research with practical applications. Covers prior knowledge (schema theory), motivation, development, practice, feedback, and metacognition. Excellent for instructional leadership training workshop programs.
Powerful Teaching
Deep dive into retrieval practice and spaced learning. Translates cognitive science research into practical working memory strategies for classroom use. Essential for teacher professional development workshops on evidence-based education.