Learning is human. The moment we're born, we are on a quest for learning, gaining knowledge and skills that define our understanding of the world. But have you ever really stopped to think about how we actually learn in the first place? What is happening in our brains when we are learning something new? In today's blog post, we will dive deep into the science behind how we learn about the interesting mechanisms that drive our thought processes.
The Learning Process:
Learning is a multifaceted phenomenon that consists of a chain of interdependent processes in the brain. In essence, learning refers to the development of new knowledge or skills by experience, study, or instruction. It is made possible by different intellectual processes such as attention, memory, and problem-solving.
Attention is a vital element of learning because it brings our attention to information that counts and holds the distractions away. While we are concentrating on something, our brains are directing resources to encode and process the information so that its chance of being stored in memory is increased. That is the reason why interested and concentrated learning environments promote superior learning success.
Memory is another fundamental element of learning. Our brains have a complex memory system that allows us to store and retrieve information. The system is made up of different types of memory, including short-term memory, long-term memory, and working memory. Short-term memory temporarily stores information for use immediately, while long-term memory stores information for extended periods. Working memory, however, is tasked with maintaining and processing information to be used for cognitive processing, e.g., problem-solving.
Encoding, storage, and retrieval are three significant procedures that are involved in the establishment of memory. Encoding is the initial process in which information gets processed for the first time via the conversion of sensory input into a state where it is placed in memory. Storage is described as keeping encoded information from time to time, and retrieval describes accessing and bringing stored information into conscious awareness at any given moment.
Aside from memory and attention, problem-solving is a vital aspect of learning. Whenever confronted by a new challenge or task, our brains resort to problem-solving mechanisms in an attempt to come up with solutions and accomplish goals. Problem-solving usually entails trial-and-error, creative thinking, and utilization of already acquired knowledge and experience.
Neuroplasticity:
One of the most intriguing aspects of the learning process is the capability of neuroplasticity of the brain. Neuroplasticity is defined as the capacity of the brain to change and reorganize its structure and function based on experience and the environment. This remarkable ability lies at the root of our brain's capacity to learn, expand, and develop throughout life.
Studies have proven that learning results in physical alterations in the brain, such as the creation of new connections between neurons and the strengthening of existing ones. These alterations, referred to as synaptic plasticity, facilitate the brain to store and retrieve new information more effectively. Moreover, neuroplasticity facilitates the brain to reorganize itself following learning, allowing for the acquisition of skills and remembering of knowledge.
Applications
Knowledge of the science of how we learn has deep implications for education, training, and self-improvement. By drawing on findings from cognitive neuroscience and psychology, instructors and trainers can create more effective learning experiences that maximize attention, memory, and problem-solving. More significantly, people can employ strategies and techniques based on the science of learning to improve their own learning process and achieve their full potential.
Learning science is a humongous and multidisciplinary domain that keeps peeling back the mysteries of human cognition. By studying the complex mechanisms that underlie our learning machinery, we have great insight into how we learn, acquire knowledge, and adapt to new problems. Whether you're a student, teacher, or lifelong learner, learning the science of learning can make you your best learning self and start a journey of ongoing improvement and discovery.
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