The learning pyramid, also known as the "cone of learning" or "cone of experience," is a visual representation of different methods of learning and their effectiveness in retaining information over time. While the exact percentages associated with each method can vary depending on the source and context, the general concept remains consistent. One of the methods often included in the learning pyramid is teaching others, which is considered one of the most effective ways to solidify one's understanding of a topic. Here's a detailed explanation of the learning pyramid including teaching others:





    Lecture: Lectures involve passive listening to an instructor presenting information. According to the learning pyramid, retention rates from lectures are typically low, ranging from around 5-10%. This method relies heavily on auditory learning and does not offer much interaction or engagement.

    Reading: Reading involves actively engaging with written material. Retention rates from reading vary but are generally higher than those from lectures, ranging from around 10-20%. Reading allows learners to digest information at their own pace and revisit concepts as needed.

    Audio-Visual: Audio-visual methods include watching videos, presentations, or demonstrations. Retention rates from audio-visual learning are higher than those from lectures or reading, typically ranging from around 20-30%. This method combines auditory and visual learning, making it more engaging and memorable for many learners.

    Demonstration: Demonstrations involve observing someone perform a task or activity. Retention rates from demonstrations are higher than those from passive methods like lectures but lower than those from active methods like teaching others. They typically range from around 30-40%. Demonstrations provide visual and sometimes hands-on learning experiences, allowing learners to see concepts in action.

    Discussion: Discussion involves actively participating in conversations or group activities related to the topic being learned. Retention rates from discussion are higher than those from passive methods but lower than those from active methods like teaching. They typically range from around 50-60%. Discussions encourage critical thinking, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas among learners.

    Practice by Doing: Practice by doing, also known as hands-on learning or experiential learning, involves actively engaging with the material through activities, exercises, or simulations. Retention rates from hands-on learning are higher than those from passive or semi-active methods, typically ranging from around 75-90%. This method allows learners to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, reinforcing their understanding through practical experience.

    Teaching Others: Teaching others involves explaining concepts or demonstrating skills to someone else. Retention rates from teaching others are among the highest of all learning methods, often cited as around 90%. Teaching requires learners to organize their thoughts, articulate concepts clearly, and anticipate questions from the audience, leading to a deeper understanding of the material.



In summary, the learning pyramid suggests that actively engaging with the material, such as through discussions, hands-on activities, and teaching others, leads to higher retention rates compared to passive learning methods like lectures or reading. Teaching others, in particular, is highlighted as an extremely effective way to solidify one's understanding of a topic and retain information in the long term.