Chapter # 6 - Learning and Cognitive Processes

WHAT?
A Model of Human Memory:
When new information is learned it is imput into the SENSORY REGISTER. If the learner didn't notice it, it will be lost forever and they will not have access to it. If they pay attention to it, the information will be moved to the WORKING/SHORT-TERM MEMORY. Three disadvantages of the working/short-term memory are:
1. It has a limited capacity
2. Information doesn't last long here.
3. It is fragile.
After the information has been in the working/short-term memory, if it goes unused, it will become lost. However, if the learner is able to encode it, there is an indepth processing that takes place and the information is moved to the LONG-TERM MEMORY. Three advantages of the long-term memory are:
1. This memory will last forever (unless there is an illness or injury that takes place).
2. It has unlimited capacity.
3. The brain is very organized and moves information to an organized place where it can later be retrieved.
However, if information in the long-term memory is not used or neglected, it could become lost or deminished over time.

SO WHAT?
As teachers, we need to help our students have stimuli they will have a desire to learn more about. They need to "notice" what we are teaching and "pay attention" to it so that this information will move to their working/short-term memory. After they pay attention to this information, we need to provide indepth processing through different memorization techniques, activities and learning experiences that will help this information move into their long-term memory, where it will last forever and they will be able to recall what we have presented for extended periods of time.

NOW WHAT?
I learn best through mnemonic strategies, chunking, rehearsing and other memorization techniques. I know that the more stimuli I have with a topic, the better able I am to move this information into my long-term memory. As a teacher, I want to help my students learn these skills so that they will be able to remember what information I have presented and become better learners. By understanding the Model of Human Memory and the different memorization techniques listed in this chapter, I will be able to help my students become better learners and I will also become a better learner in the process.