Cognitive learning

Introduction

Cognitive learning is a type of learning that is active, constructive, and long-lasting. It engages students in the learning processes, promoting deeper understanding and complex mastery of materials. Cognitive learning theory encompasses various psychological activities such as reading, reasoning, acquisition of knowledge, memory, and problem solving. These processes are significant in cognitive learning because they allow the learner to actively engage with the material, integrate new information with existing knowledge, and apply the new information to solve problems or make decisions.

Cognitive Learning Theory

Cognitive learning theory is a broad theory that explains thinking and differing mental processes and how they are influenced by internal and external factors in order to produce learning in individuals. The theory focuses on the thought process behind the behavior, which is contrary to behavioral learning theory, which focuses solely on the observable behaviors.

Cognitive learning theorists believe that learning is an internal process in which information is integrated or internalized into one's cognitive or intellectual structure. This integration or internalization process allows the learner to build upon previous knowledge, forming a better understanding of the material and making new connections.

Cognitive Learning Processes

Cognitive learning involves various mental processes. These processes include perception, memory, attention, and problem solving.

Perception

Perception is the process of selecting, organizing, and interpreting sensory input to make sense of its meaning. It is the first step in cognitive learning. The learner must perceive or become aware of the learning material or information before any learning can occur.

Memory

Memory is a crucial process in cognitive learning. It involves encoding, storing, and retrieving information. Encoding is the process of transforming sensory information into a form that can be stored in memory. Storing involves maintaining the encoded information in memory over time. Retrieving is the process of accessing or recalling the stored information when it is needed.

Attention

Attention is the cognitive process of selectively concentrating on one aspect of the environment while ignoring other things. Attention is vital in cognitive learning because it is the process that allows the learner to focus on specific information or tasks, enabling the learner to process the information deeply and transfer it from short-term memory to long-term memory.

Problem Solving

Problem solving is a cognitive process that involves identifying, analyzing, and resolving problems. It is a higher-order cognitive process that requires the ability to manipulate and apply information in a practical way. Problem solving is crucial in cognitive learning because it enables the learner to apply the learned information to new situations, enhancing the learning transfer.

Cognitive Learning Strategies

Cognitive learning strategies are specific methods that people use to help them understand and remember information. Some of the most commonly used strategies include rehearsal, elaboration, organization, and metacognitive strategies.

Rehearsal

Rehearsal is a strategy that involves repeatedly practicing and reviewing the information to remember it. This strategy is effective for memorizing simple information.

Elaboration

Elaboration is a strategy that involves making connections between new information and existing knowledge. This strategy helps to integrate new information into existing cognitive structures, promoting deeper understanding and long-term retention of the information.

Organization

Organization is a strategy that involves arranging information in a way that makes it easier to understand and remember. This strategy can involve creating outlines, diagrams, or concept maps.

Metacognitive Strategies

Metacognitive strategies involve thinking about one's own thinking or learning processes. These strategies can include planning, monitoring, and evaluating one's own learning.

Cognitive Learning Models

There are several models that explain how cognitive learning occurs. These models include the information processing model, the Bloom's taxonomy, and the cognitive load theory.

Information Processing Model

The information processing model is a cognitive learning model that explains how information is processed in our minds. It involves three stages: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.

Bloom's Taxonomy

Bloom's taxonomy is a model that classifies cognitive learning objectives into six levels: knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. This model is useful for designing learning activities that target different cognitive levels.

Cognitive Load Theory

Cognitive load theory is a model that explains how cognitive resources are used during learning. It suggests that learning is more effective when cognitive resources are not overloaded.

Implications for Teaching

Understanding cognitive learning theory and its processes can have significant implications for teaching. It suggests that effective teaching should focus on developing students' cognitive skills such as perception, memory, attention, and problem solving. It also suggests that teaching should involve the use of cognitive learning strategies such as rehearsal, elaboration, organization, and metacognitive strategies. Furthermore, understanding cognitive learning models can help teachers design effective learning activities that consider how information is processed and how cognitive resources are used.