The Brain Builds Knowledge, Information Brick By Information Brick
Some dictionaries describe learning as the “acquisition of knowledge,” but cognitive neuroscience says that knowledge is actually built, not acquired. The brain loves looking for patterns and actively constructs understanding by connecting new information to existing mental structures. If we were to visualize this process, we’d say that each piece of information acts as a brick that forms networks of knowledge. For eLearning professionals, understanding the ins and outs of how the brain builds knowledge can be invaluable. Let’s see how this process unfolds and collect some valuable insights to take our eLearning design and development practices to the next level.
The Knowledge-Building Process
Attention And Encoding
The brain begins to build knowledge by paying attention. Only information deemed relevant or novel passes into 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 have shown that attention enhances neural activation and amplifies these structures. In practice, this means that learners who pay attention encode more information and progress faster through the process of building knowledge, while distracted learners encode less and tend to forget more. For better attention and encoding in learners, try leveraging your learners’ curiosity by switching between modalities to ensure a fresh and novel eLearning experience.
Working Memory
Working memory is the brain’s temporary holding space for new information, and its capacity is said to be limited. Some researchers have tried to quantify it into around four to nine chunks of information, but in real life, there are multiple variables at play to get a specific number. In any case, when an overabundance of information overloads this system, such as eLearning material with dense text or complex visuals, comprehension drops. Cognitive load theory has already established that clear design is the answer here. For the brain to keep its working memory intact and effectively build knowledge, segmenting content, using supportive visuals, and simplifying module structures are some great tips for eLearning professionals.
Prior Knowledge
The brain builds 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 make knowledge easier to retrieve and apply. eLearning professionals can harness prior knowledge by utilizing analogies when introducing new concepts, making learning more context-driven, and encouraging learners to draw associations with the content from their lived experiences.
Neural Plasticity
When we say that the brain is plastic, we don’t mean that it’s polluting the environment. We mean that, throughout our lifetimes, the brain will continue to reorganize itself by creating or modifying neural pathways and synapses to accommodate new information. This malleability is what facilitates our drive for continuous learning and what eventually leads us to mastery. When learners practice a skill, the neurons associated with said skill fire together. By repeating this practice, the same neurons keep firing to strengthen the synaptic connections between them, and this is why things we do regularly get easier over time. Similarly, if a pathway is less used, those connections can weaken.
Consolidation
Once encoded, memories are stabilized through consolidation, which starts at the hippocampus and helps organize and index new information for later use. Over time, information that is stored temporarily in the hippocampus can be moved to the neocortex, the part that commands higher functions (perception, cognition, etc.), as a form of general knowledge. Broadly speaking, though, our memories reside across different parts of the brain, based on their type. eLearning pros can encourage consolidation by integrating scenario-based learning into their courses, so learners can approach real-world matters critically, make decisions, and ultimately learn from their mistakes.
Retrieval Practice
Post-consolidation, retrieval becomes a good practice to make knowledge last longer. Retrieving information strengthens memory because each retrieval reinforces synaptic connections, making knowledge more resistant to decay. As mentioned above, the brain’s plasticity is how we’re able to learn throughout our lives. Retrieval practice is what makes what we’ve learned actually endure through time. Thankfully, as eLearning professionals, we already recognize its value. We can use it more often in our offerings through the use of low-stakes quizzes, flashcards, and regular review checkpoints.
Concept Formation And Abstraction
The brain loves detecting patterns, and it needs to do so in order to effectively build knowledge. Knowledge building doesn’t just involve memorization, but also abstraction, which is the process of identifying patterns and general principles. In scientific terms, as the prefrontal cortex integrates learning into conceptual categories, it enables transferring learning to new contexts. Instructional strategies like varied practice, case comparisons, and real-world simulations engage this process by prompting learners to extract commonalities. This also makes the knowledge built more useful and applicable in day-to-day life.
Knowledge Building, Neurodiversity, And Neuroscience Literacy
Neurodiversity is actually quite literal as a term, reflecting the rich and naturally occurring variety in human neurocognition. Phrases such as “Every brain is unique,” or “No two brains are alike,” are actually science-backed truths! While we can outline how it builds knowledge according to textbooks, fully exploring the uniqueness of the human brain takes more than a high-level analysis. That’s why neuroliteracy is an essential skill for eLearning professionals. For truly exemplary eLearning work, you need to understand how to interpret cognitive and neuroscientific research findings as they get published and how to implement them in diverse learning contexts. It’s the only way to accommodate the individuality of all your learners and give them the best possible learning experience.
The Brain Builds Networks Of Knowledge
As we’ve seen, “knowledge acquisition” isn’t the whole truth. The brain actually builds knowledge through an active, constructive process that engages its various mechanisms simultaneously. Attention, encoding, consolidation, and retrieval all work tirelessly toward creating effective networks that process the stimuli we encounter every day. And eLearning environments should reflect that. Just combine your expertise with a few eLearning tools and some science-backed insights, and you will help your learners build knowledge that endures.
