The brain constructs information through information, bricks of information
Some dictionaries describe learning as the “acquisition of knowledge,” but cognitive neuroscience says that knowledge is actually created, not acquired. The brain loves to look for patterns and actively construct understanding by connecting new information to existing mental structures. If we want to visualize this process, we say that each piece of information acts as a brick that forms a knowledge network. For experienced professionals, understanding how the mind creates knowledge can be invaluable. Let’s see how this process unfolds and gather some valuable insights to take our elearning design and development practices to the next level.
The process of knowledge creation
Attention and encoding
The mind begins to generate knowledge by paying attention. Transfers only relevant information to relevant or novel working memory. This information undergoes encoding, which transforms sensory input into neural representations, the mental structures we use to identify visual objects and information. Studies show that meditation increases neural activation and enhances these structures. In practice, this means that learners who pay attention encode more information and progress faster through the knowledge construction process, while engaged learners encode less and forget more. For better attention and encoding among learners, try to capitalize on your learners’ curiosity by switching between mattliations methods to ensure a fresh and novel learning experience.
Working memory
Working memory is the brain’s temporary holding area for new information, and its capacity is said to be limited. Some researchers have tried to quantify its information from four to nine parts, but in real life, there are too many variables to get a specific number. In any case, when too much information overload overloads the system, such as dense text or complex visuals, Ellering material with a drop in comprehension. Cognitive load theory has already established that explicit design is the answer here. Here are some great tips for alienating professionals to help the brain maintain its working memory and effectively process knowledge, dissecting content, using visual aids, and developing module structures that make it easier.
Knowledge first
The brain constructs knowledge by linking new input to existing schemas, which are structured networks of related concepts. When learners connect new information to what they already know, they create networks that facilitate knowledge retrieval and application. Learning professionals can leverage prior knowledge by using analogies when introducing new concepts, making learning more contextual, and encouraging learners to relate content to their lived experiences.
Neural plasticity
When we say that the brain is plastic, we don’t mean that it is polluting the environment. We mean that, throughout our lives, the brain will continue to reorganize itself to accommodate new information, neural pathways and synapses. This disorder is what facilitates our drive to continuously learn and eventually leads us to mastery. When learners practice a skill, the neurons associated with the skill fire together. By repeating this exercise, the same neurons keep firing to strengthen the synaptic connections between them, and this is why things we do regularly become easier over time. Likewise, if a pathway is underutilized, those connections may be weak.
stability
Once encoded, memories are consolidated through consolidation, which begins in the hippocampus and helps organize and index new information for later use. Over time, information that is temporarily stored in the hippocampus can be transferred to the neocortex, the part that commands higher functions (emotion, perception, etc.) as a form of general knowledge. By and large, though, our memories reside in different parts of the brain based on their type. Elearning can encourage persistence by integrating professional scenario-based learning into its courses, so learners can critically approach real-world cases, make decisions, and ultimately learn from their mistakes.
Retrieval practice
After consolidation, retrieval becomes a good practice for long-term retention of knowledge. Retrieving information strengthens memory because each retrieval strengthens synaptic connections, making knowledge more resistant to decay. As mentioned above, brain plasticity is how we can learn throughout our lives. Retrieval practice is what we learn endures over time. Thankfully, as elearning professionals, we already recognize its value. We can use it more frequently in our presentations through the use of low-stakes quizzes, flashcards, and regular review checkpoints.
Concept formation and abstraction
The brain likes to detect patterns, and it needs to do so in order to effectively construct knowledge. Knowledge building involves not only memorization, but also summarization, which is the process of identifying patterns and general principles. In scientific terms, because the prefrontal cortex integrates learning into conceptual categories, it enables learning to be transferred to new contexts. Teaching strategies such as varied practice, case comparisons, and real-world simulations engage this process by prompting learners to draw out commonalities. It also makes the knowledge more useful and applicable in daily life.
Knowledge construction, neurodiversity, and neuroscience literacy
Neurodiversity is actually quite literal as a term, reflecting the rich and naturally occurring variety in human neural identity. Phrases like “every brain is unique,” or “no two brains are the same,” are actually science-backed truths! Although we can outline how it constitutes knowledge according to textbooks, it takes more than a high-level analysis to fully explore the uniqueness of the human brain. This is why neuroliteracy is an essential skill for professionals. For a truly ideal elearning job, you need to understand how to interpret cognitive and neuroscience research findings when they are published and how they can be implemented in diverse learning contexts. It’s the only way to accommodate the uniqueness of all your learners and provide them with the best learning experience.
The brain creates networks of knowledge
As we have seen, the “acquisition of knowledge” is not the whole truth. Mind actually Constructions Knowledge through an active, constructive process that simultaneously engages its various mechanisms. Attention, encoding, consolidation, and retrieval all work tirelessly toward creating efficient networks that process the stimuli we encounter every day. And the environmental environment should reflect that. Just combine your expertise with some learning tools and some science-backed insights, and you’ll help your learners create knowledge that endures.
