Turana Fazil Ismayilova

HOW TO LEARN TO LEARN: POWERFUL MENTAL TOOLS TO MASTER COMPLEX TOPICS

Abstract. This article emphasizes the importance of the skill of “learning how to learn” in the modern era and explores how it enhances cognitive engagement among students in the teaching of Azerbaijani history. It examines mental strategies such as focused and diffuse thinking modes, spaced repetition, chunking, and metacognitive skills, which help improve students’ memory, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. These methods position history not merely as a subject for information transfer but as a platform for active learning and civic education. The article highlights how the application of these strategies in Azerbaijani history classes contributes to students’ academic success as well as the formation of their national and cultural identity.

Keywords: Cognitive engagement, chunking, metacognition, critical thinking, active learning, , student motivation, lifelong learning