What are the two key stages of learning that we measure? Learning certainly involves at least two important stages that blend together almost seamlessly. The first stage is the Acquisition Stage utilising the immediate (short-term) memory networks. Here we sense and attend to the stimulus (information) in order to engage the brain in rehearsal. Networks of brain neurons link the incoming information with existing memories in what I refer to as the ‘mixing room.’ It involves the mixing of the now (what’s being asked of us) with the past (what we already know and do) and possible futures (new ways of knowing and doing). Many factors influence the Acquisition Stage, all to varying degrees: Emotions Attentiveness Curiosity Concepts Prior knowledge
affective value associated with the learning capacity to focus and not be distracted during critical learning periods degree of interest in wanting to understand how we perceive ourselves as learners and how we perceive our futures whether one can understand (make sense of) the information
Collectively, these factors significantly contribute towards the level of engagement the learner brings when asked to acquire information. The higher the level of engagement, the higher the probability that the student will invest his or her brain in the learning task directed by the teacher. The second stage is the Rehearsal Stage utilising the brain’s working memory networks. We rehearse (practice) learning in order to retain it. Many factors influence the Rehearsal Stage, all to varying degrees: Motivation Confidence Capacity Modality Strategies Time
conscious desire or necessity to learn, the relevance perceived ability in one’s capacity to learn intellect, ability to make sense of learning preferred sensory input preferred ways, methods or styles to learn how long it takes to learn
Successful learning strategies take account of both stages of learning because memory is a direct function of how well a learner acquires and rehearses information. Note: a number of commercial Learning Styles instruments are available for schools to profile their students. Focus Education has developed the Learning and Career profiling System used in schools around the world. All such instruments have their benefits and limitations. Should you be interested in Profiling Students, we advise that you research the options available, obtain a trial version before committing to any program, and choose a program that suits your specific school needs.
Learning with the Brain in Mind 25th Asia Pacific Annual IB Conference
© John Joseph P 33