Science of Reading Essentials: The Science of learning
Science of Reading Essentials: The Science of learning  
Podcast: Science of Reading: The Podcast
Published On: Wed May 20 2026
Description: On this Science of Reading Essentials episode we're diving into the science of learning to explore how memory, cognitive load, and knowledge building can transform your literacy instruction. Host Susan Lambert, Ed.D., weaves in the insights of our experts—Natalie Wexler; Nathaniel Swain, Ph.D.; Hugh Catts, Ph.D.; Daniel Willingham, Ph.D.; Peter C. Brown; Jamey Peavler, Ed.D.; and David Rapp, Ph.D. Susan reflects on: how memory works and why understanding its processes is foundational to effective teaching; why cognitive load theory and background knowledge are game-changers for literacy instruction; evidence-based strategies that make learning stick.Show notes:Our Summer Learning Academy is back! Reserve your spot now to join Susan Lambert for a pair of sessions that will help you dive deeper into reading comprehension research.Check out full episodes with our featured guests: The science of learning, the humility of teaching, with Peter C. BrownComprehension is not a skill, with Hugh CattsWhen not to differentiate: A guide to small-group instruction with Jamey PeavlerThe truth behind learning, with Nathaniel SwainThe Knowledge Gap: Natalie WexlerCognitive science-informed teaching, with Natalie WexlerUnlocking reading: Comprehension strategies vs. knowledge building, with Daniel WillinghamThe science of memory and misinformation, with David RappListen to Amplify's Beyond My Years podcastCheck out our Science of Reading Essentials episodes. Join our community Facebook group.Connect with Susan Lambert.Quotes:"Memory is a cognitive process. It's the way the brain encodes, stores, and retrieves information." —Susan LambertTimestamps*:0:00 Introduction05:00 Memory is a cognitive process07:00 Cognitive load theory10:00 Role of long-term memory for reading15:00 Process of building knowledge in long-term memory21:00 You can't learn something new if it doesn't connect to something you already know.24:00 Applying learning science to the literacy classroom30:00 Power of writing31:00 Final advice*Timestamps are approximate