Photo courtesy of Christopher Chabris
Christopher Chabris is a renowned cognitive scientist, and co-author (with Daniel Simons) of the best selling book, The Invisible Gorilla. Long-time Perpetual Chess listeners will know that he is also a USCF Master, an adult-improver, and a chess dad, thus making him a great recurring guest. Since we have been discussing the science of learning a lot in recent conversations, I thought it would be a great time to check back in with someone with specific domain knowledge. Christopher walks us through the latest in scientific research, as it pertains to learning. This includes explanations of spaced repetition and how aging effects chess skill. Christopher also shares some thoughts about ways that chess learning could be properly studied scientifically. Of course, there was a lot more to discuss than just the science of learning, so Christopher and I also talked about the latest, greatest chess books, what he learned from an online camp with GM Jacob Aagaard. He also told a few more fun stories from his many chess adventures. As always, keep reading for more information and timestamps.
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0:00- Since Christopher is a frequent Perpetual Chess Listener, we begin by hearing his perspective on the recent chess improvement tips that have been shared on the show, especially as they relate to the science of learning.
Mentioned: Listen to Christopher’s prior Perpetual Chess interview here: https://podcasts.apple.com/jm/podcast/ep-95-uscf-master-cognitive-scientist-christopher-chabris/id1185023674?i=1000421410393
Also Mentioned: IM Erik Kislik
8:45- What do we really know for sure when it comes to chess learning?
Mentioned: Spaced repetition. Some of the information cited comes from a study by
Yana Weinstein, Christopher R. Madan, & Megan A. Sumeracki- Teaching the Science of Learning
Christopher recommends this book for a general overview of the science of learning: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Stick-Science-Successful-Learning/dp/0674729013
GM Jacob Aagard, Perpetual Chess: Woodpecker Method book recap with Neal Bruce, Perpetual Chess Interview with NM Elijah Logozar, interleaving
20:30- Christopher tackles a couple of good Patreon mailbag questions relating to how one could conduct a study to test best practices in chess learning and how to correct any misconceptions that are cited about brain science in the chess world.
Mentioned: GM Jan Gustafsson, Malcolm Gladwell
33:00- What do scientists know about aging as it relates to brain function?
37:45- As always, Perpetual Chess is brought to you in part by Chessable.com. One of the many free courses that I like is GM Alex Colovic’s Short and Sweet: Queen’s Gambit Declined.
38:00- Christopher gives a “trip report” on an online chess camp he did with renowned trainer, GM Jacob Aagaard.
Also mentioned: GM Leonid Shamkovich, NM Bruce Pandolfini, IM Erik Kislik
49:00- Christopher’s son is playing chess fairly actively, and gives an update on his progress. Then he discusses the aspect of chess he is finding most challenging in his competitions these days, and how he is spending his study time.
Mentioned: IM Jim Rizzitano, Secrets of Modern Chess Strategy
57:00- Christopher is an avid chess reader, so he gives a detailed update on some chess books he has recently enjoyed.
Mentioned: Gambit App Books here: http://www.gambitbooks.com/webapp/appbooks.html, The Anand Files, The Road to Chess Improvement, Game Changer
Improve Your Chess Now, Secrets of Practical Chess, GM Jonathan Rowson
We also mentioned, but haven't yet read the following:
Think Like a Machine, GM Tukmakov ‘s Modern Chess Formula, The Powerful Impact of Engines
1:02:00- Christopher discusses some of the online leagues in which he has played and gives preparation tips as well as a general comparison of playing online compared to OTB.
Mentioned: Lichess4545.com
1:16:30- Christopher was ready this time for the question of brushes with famous chess players!
Mentioned: IM Dan Edelman, GM Anatoly Karpov, Deep Thought, GM Walter Browne, GM Patrick Wolff, GM Viswanathan Anand, Murray Campbell, GM Magnus Carlsen, GM Fabiano Caruana, Dan Smith, Twitter Chess Tournament
1:25:00- Thanks as always to Christopher for stopping by and sharing his knowledge and stories. Here is his info:
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