Cognitive Learning Strategies

This week's resources describe, in detail, the many theories and aspects of cognitive learning. The aspect that stood out to me the most is the concept of "elaboration" as described by Dr. Orey in this week's video. "Elaboration" is the way the mind processes information into long-term memory by making connections to their learning. If a child cannot connect to what they are learning, then that information will not be permanently stored.

The Summarizing and Note Taking chapter of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction That Works discusses how students' note taking "focuses on enhancing students' ability to synthesize information and distill it into a concise new form." This is, in fact, a physical form of elaboration. By use of tools like concept maps and various online tools, students will be able to more readily "elaborate" on material discussed in class by physically seeing the connections being made right in front of them. This will increase the ability of the students to remember the "pathway" to the information they wish to recall, another cognitive learning theory. This week's upcoming application will allow me to design a concept map to utilize in my classroom to promote "elaborating" with my students.