Sam TC Ch. 4

Sam
Chapter 4 Summary: Exceptional skill is developed over time through consistent myelination brought about by diligent, error-focused "deep practice." Deep Practice includes focusing on and correcting errors by first separating the given skill into chunks and then repeatedly practicing those chunks. It is also necessary to recognize when when we are practicing effectively. Chunking allows you to focus deeply on smaller skills, master them and then combine them with other smaller skills to form a large, well-myelinated circuit that facilitates a more complex skill. Before we can separate something into chunks we have to absorb the skill as a whole. We can do this by observing those who have already mastered the skill. Next, we have to separate the skill into conceptual chunks that allow us to focus on very specific aspects of a skill. Then, we have to slow the performance of said skill down so that we can more effectively master it. Slowing down causes greater focus on errors and a greater perception of the skills development. Once we have effectively "chunked" a skill we need to repeatedly practice the chunks. Repetition causes myelination and also helps us maintain the myelination that has already taken place. Myelin is living just like everything else in the body, so it needs to be constantly fed. It's also important that we learn to recognize when we effectively employing deep practice. Results of deep practice can include attention, focus, repetition, and eventual exhaustion.
Key Concept: Deep practice can be achieved through a process of separating a skill into more manageable chunks which are practiced repeatedly in order to allow greater focus on mistakes, a clearer perception of the development of skill, and eventual mastery of a skill. This kind of practice requires deep focus and can be very tiring.
Key Terms: Chunking, divine dissatisfaction, self-regulation
Making Connections: I can practice effectively by breaking down entire pieces of music into smaller chunks that will allow me to focus on specific skills that I may be struggling with. I can then continue the process of effective practice by repeating the chunks that I have trouble with until I achieve target behavior. I also want to do a better job of analyzing my practice habits to make sure that I am doing deep practice and being as productive with my practice time as possible.