When children start to learn how to read, their progress is slow: they move their eyes slowly across the lines of the text to grasp the meanings of unfamiliar words and phrases. However, as years pass, most people become highly proficient at this skill, resulting in improvement in reading speed.
When children start learning how to read, their progress is slow. They move their eyes slowly across the lines of the text to grasp the meaning of unfamiliar words and phrases. As they grow and gain knowledge, they become proficient at things that seemed so difficult at first.
Studies show that the average adult can read and understand about 238 words per minute (WPM) while reading silently. When reading out loud, the average reader can read approximately 183 WPM. In addition, statistics by the National Center for Voice and Speech highlight that the average rate of spoken English is 150 WPM.
Why did we give you all this information and what does it have to do with speed listening? It is all about the ability to adapt and improve on the go. With just one ability to adapt to speed listening, it is possible to consume more information and gain more knowledge.
Here is another question; “Is it possible to train speed listening skills? You may wonder, “Can this really be done? If yes, what are the benefits and side effects of speed listening?” You will surely find the answers to your questions in this article.
So, let’s get started!
What is Speed Listening?
Speed listening is an effective technique that coordinates with our brain’s information-processing abilities. As stated above, the human brain is capable of processing spoken words at a pace that surpasses the speed of articulation. Thus, various audio applications and Chrome extensions for online learning offer the option to increase the playback speed. For instance, Saima, which is the world’s first adaptive video controller, personalizes video-watching experience. It helps to understand and focus on video content at a speed that is best for each user’s comprehension.
How Does Speed Listening Work?
In casual chats, people tend to speak faster than in formal settings, for example, during lectures. The human brain can process information even at a pace beyond casual conversation. However, to adapt to the new pace you will need to undergo some training. The good news is that the practice might take a short time. Just like gaining new skills, the brain can adjust to new stimuli if the latter are repetitive.
Benefits of Speed Listening
Speed listening, like most things in the world, has its advantages and disadvantages. It enables quick learning, boosts listening abilities, and fosters productivity. However, note that it has some drawbacks as well.
Study Faster
Studying can sometimes be stressful. It might feel impossible to keep up with such a vast amount of information. However, with the introduction of speed listening, students do not need to worry about missing out on any piece of information. Today, most textbooks have audio versions. Even if the latter is not available, there are thousands of extensions and applications that can read out loud texts and even images. These tools are especially useful for studying, as they mostly adjust the reading speed according to the user’s preference.
Sense of Achievement
People consume information either for professional growth or for entertainment. We may choose to listen to books or podcasts for self-improvement or just for fun. For example, as of 2024, 504.9 million people globally listen to podcasts and this number is predicted to increase. Moreover, people get a sense of achievement when a book or a podcast is finished or when they learn something new and valuable. Speed listening can assist in achieving all of the above-mentioned.
Drawbacks of Speed Listening
With all the benefits in mind, it is important to note that speed listening can also lead to several problems. Two of those issues are mental burnout and impatience in other areas. Let’s discuss these negative outcomes.
Mental Burnout
Practicing speed listening can initially be overwhelming. Thus, it is important to take breaks while you progress. You should decrease the speed from time to time, especially before increasing the speed to a higher level. When feeling overwhelmed, make sure to take breaks that involve relaxing activities, such as meditation. Remember that mental burnout is a real physiological event. So, the more mental energy you use while consuming information, the more important it becomes to take breaks.
Impatience in Other Areas
As our brains get used to listening at high speeds, we adjust to processing a vast amount of information. This might lead to the perception that everyone else is speaking at a slower pace. We now have the option of slowing down even YouTube videos or TV shows. This constant high speed can sometimes be overwhelming and unhealthy for most of us. Thus, make sure to find your right speed for learning and maintain balance when it comes to speed listening.
Tips for Effective Speed Listening
Speed listening is a skill that needs to be fostered over time.
Increase the Playback Speed of Audio Content
If you are consuming audio content for fun and engagement, try to experiment and challenge yourself. Consider increasing the playback speed to 3x speed. After some time, your brain will adapt to this new change and become more responsive. If you feel like the speed is too high, make sure to slow it down to avoid mental burnout.
Take Notes While Listening
To make speed listening a more engaging process, make sure to take notes about the content you are consuming. Also, consider taking notes regarding your experience with speed listening. These notes will later serve as feedback for future reference, allowing you to make further modifications and adjustments.
Repeat Key Points Aloud
To learn effectively, make sure to repeat important points out loud. When encountering an important sentence or statistic, repeat it out loud. This will help you grasp the information you are listening to in a more effective way.
Track Your Listening Time
Practicing is crucial, but make sure to take a rest when you are getting tired. Think of it like a workout: here as well, rest is essential for future advancement. Use a time tracker during your speed listening sessions. When reaching the limit, stop and record the results for future consideration.
Conclusion
The popularity of speed listening has its reasons. This practice helps to enhance knowledge and achieve goals more efficiently. While keeping balance is important, training can be a powerful tool to unlock more opportunities in their studies or workplaces.