Memory and Learning: Understanding the Process
We often talk of memory as an entity: a thing like a kidney or lung or heart. To make our understanding easier, many of us picture it as discrete little packets of information filed away in neat little compartments in our brain. However, memory doesn’t exist in that way. It is actually the *process* of remembering. 🧠
Factors that Influence Memory Formation
Memory formation depends on a variety of factors. A memory has better chances of being well-formed if:
- It is based on information that a person is already familiar with.
- Attention has been paid to trying to remember it.
Students may forget what they’ve learned if they haven’t properly registered or retained the information. Additionally, they may struggle to recall the information accurately. 📝
Improving Memory Formation
Scientists have shown that memory can be improved by focusing on the process of memory formation. Practicing memorization is more effective if specific techniques are used. For example, when learning Times Tables, the methods of practicing memorization can improve memory when targeted strategies are applied in the classroom. 🎓
Where Memory Resides
Memory does not reside in just one place in the brain. It’s a complex biological phenomenon, functioning at the synapses of the interconnecting nerve cells scattered throughout the brain. Interestingly, scientists don’t separate how we remember from how we think! 🧠
How Memory Forms
Memory has its roots in the senses and movements. When external stimuli—either from education or training—cause changes in the nerve cells at dendrites and synapses, memory is formed. 🧠✨
Perception
A child’s first memories may come from being held in their mother’s arms. These memories begin with *perception*, where sensory information is associated with memories. This is the foundation for learning as sensory details (like touch, smell, and sight) come together to form a cohesive memory.
Registering and Retaining
Memory starts when information is *registered* through perception. The information is stored as short-term memory and can be lost unless conscious attention is paid to it. Repeating and focusing on the information helps transfer it into long-term memory and ensures that it is *retained*.
Recalling
When recalling a memory, associations are made between words, images, meanings, and experiences. The quality of these associations will determine how accurate the recall is. Attention is key for effective memory recall. 🔑
Implications for Educators and Parents
The takeaway for teachers and parents is clear: *engage attention* while teaching. The more focused a child is on the learning material, the better the chances for solid memory formation. Ensuring that the student is actively engaged and focused during lessons will greatly impact how well they remember and use the information. 🧑🏫
