The brain builds knowledge brick by brick of information
Although some dictionaries describe learning as “the acquisition of knowledge,” cognitive neuroscience states that knowledge is constructed rather than actually acquired. The brain loves looking for patterns and actively constructs understanding by connecting new information to existing mental structures. Visualizing this process, we can say that each piece of information serves as a brick that forms a network of knowledge. For eLearning professionals, understanding the details of how the brain constructs knowledge is invaluable. Let’s take a look at how this process unfolds and glean some valuable insights to take your eLearning design and development practices to the next level.
knowledge construction process
Attention and encoding
The brain begins to accumulate knowledge by paying attention. Only information that is considered relevant or new is passed to working memory. This information is encoded, converting sensory input into neural representations, mental structures used to identify visual objects and information. Research shows that attention increases neural activation and amplifies these structures. In practice, this means that attentive learners are able to encode more information and move through the knowledge construction process faster, whereas distracted learners tend to encode less and forget more. To increase learner attention and engagement, switch modalities to harness learner curiosity and ensure a fresh and novel e-learning experience.
working memory
Working memory is a space in which the brain temporarily stores new information, and its capacity is said to be limited. Some researchers have tried to quantify information into about 4 to 9 chunks, but in reality, multiple variables come into play to arrive at a particular number. Either way, when this system is overloaded with too much information, such as e-learning materials with dense text or complex visuals, comprehension declines. Cognitive load theory has already established that clear design is the answer here. To help the brain maintain working memory and effectively build knowledge, breaking up content, using supporting visuals, and simplifying modular structure are key tips for eLearning professionals.
prior knowledge
The brain constructs knowledge by linking new input to existing schemas, which are structured networks of related concepts. When learners connect new information with what they already know, networks are formed that facilitate the search and application of knowledge. Utilizing analogies when introducing new concepts allows e-learning professionals to leverage prior knowledge, make learning more context-driven, and help learners draw connections to content from real-life experiences.
neural plasticity
When we say the brain is plastic, we don’t mean it’s polluting the environment. This means that throughout our lives, the brain continues to reorganize itself by creating or changing neural pathways and synapses to accommodate new information. This adaptability fuels our desire for continuous learning and ultimately leads to mastery. When a learner practices a skill, the neurons associated with that skill fire in unison. By repeating this exercise, the same neurons continue to fire and the synaptic connections between neurons are strengthened. This is why the things we do regularly become easier over time. Similarly, low utilization of routes can weaken those connections.
integration
Once encoded, memories are stabilized by consolidation starting in the hippocampus, which helps organize and index new information for later use. Over time, information temporarily stored in the hippocampus may move to the neocortex, the part that directs higher-order functions (perception, cognition, etc.), as a form of general knowledge. However, broadly speaking, our memories reside in different parts of the brain depending on their type. E-learning professionals can promote retention by integrating scenario-based learning into their courses, allowing learners to critically engage with real-world problems, make decisions, and ultimately learn from their mistakes.
Search practice
After integration, search is encouraged to preserve knowledge. Each time you search for information, you strengthen your synaptic connections, making knowledge less susceptible to deterioration and thus strengthening your memory. As mentioned above, brain plasticity allows us to learn throughout our lives. Recall practice is what actually makes what we learn persist over time. Thankfully, as e-learning experts, we already recognize its value. You can use this more often on our service with low-cost quizzes, flashcards, and regular review checkpoints.
Concept formation and abstraction
The brain loves to detect patterns, and it needs to be able to detect them to effectively build knowledge. Building knowledge requires not only memorization but also abstraction, the process of identifying patterns and general principles. Scientifically speaking, the prefrontal cortex integrates learning into conceptual categories, allowing it to be transferred to new contexts. Teaching strategies such as varied practices, case comparisons, and real-world simulations address this process by encouraging learners to extract commonalities. This makes the knowledge built more useful and applicable in everyday life.
Knowledge construction, neurodiversity, neuroscience literacy
Neurodiversity is actually a literal term, reflecting the rich diversity that naturally exists in human neurocognition. Phrases like “every brain is unique” or “no two brains are alike” are actually science-backed truths. While textbooks can outline how knowledge is constructed, fully exploring the uniqueness of the human brain requires more than advanced analysis. Neuroliteracy is therefore an essential skill for e-learning professionals. To create truly exemplary eLearning work, you need to understand how to interpret cognitive and neuroscience research results as they are published, and how to implement them in diverse learning contexts. This is the only way to accommodate the uniqueness of every learner and provide the best learning experience possible.
The brain builds networks of knowledge
As we have seen, “acquisition of knowledge” is not the whole truth. In fact, the brain constructs knowledge through an active, constructive process that engages various mechanisms simultaneously. Attention, encoding, integration, and retrieval all work tirelessly toward creating effective networks to process the stimuli we encounter every day. And your eLearning environment needs to reflect that. Simply combine your expertise with a few eLearning tools and science-backed insights to help your learners build lasting knowledge.
