This article is part of a series on types of learning, where we explore the major types of learning and then see how we can apply them in practice to the learning of our students, our children, and ourselves.

Cognitive Learning is all about how our brain processes and understands new information. In Cognitive Learning, we’re not just memorizing, but we’re actually understanding the subject. We might connect new information to things we already know, solve problems by thinking about different solutions, or use our imagination to come up with new ideas. This kind of learning helps us not only remember information better, but also adapt and use it in real-life situations.

As an example, let’s say we're learning about the concept of quadratic equations. Rather than just memorizing the formula for solving these equations, we start by understanding what a quadratic equation is, why it has the shape of a parabola when graphed, and how changes in the equation’s coefficients can affect this shape.

We also learn to solve these equations by factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula, and we understand when to use each method. We relate the solutions of the equation to the points where the parabola crosses the x-axis on the graph.

In this process, we not only memorize the quadratic formula, but also understanding the reasoning behind it and its implications. We are actively engaging with the material, processing it, linking it to what we already know, and applying it to solve problems. This is a good example of Cognitive Learning.

Cognitive Learning versus Rote Memorization

We’ve touched on Rote Memorization before. From our description above, it seems that Cognitive Learning overlaps with Rote Memorization somewhat. Let’s explore how types of learning relate to one another.

Cognitive Learning is more beneficial than Rote Memorization in several scenarios:

• Understanding Complex Concepts: Cognitive Learning is crucial when you're dealing with complex topics or concepts that require a deep understanding. It helps you understand the “why” and “how” of things, not just the “what”. Rote Memorization focuses exclusively on memorizing the “what”.

• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Cognitive Learning promotes problem-solving and critical thinking skills. It encourages you to apply what you've learned to new situations, analyze information, make connections, and form your own ideas. Rote Memorization does not focus at all on problem solving or critical thinking.

• Long-Term Retention: Information learned through understanding and connections tends to stick in your memory longer than information learned through repetition alone.

• Active Learning: Cognitive Learning is an active process. Instead of passively receiving information, you actively engage with it, which often makes learning more interesting and enjoyable.

• Applying Knowledge to New Situations: Because you're not just memorizing specific facts, but understanding how things work and relate to each other, Cognitive Learning helps you apply what you’ve learned to new and different situations.

It sounds like Cognitive Learning is better than Rote Memorization, right?

Almost.

Rote Memorization still has a key place in the learning process, particularly when it comes to acquiring basic, foundational knowledge. You cannot learn mathematical concepts if you do not know the numbers. You cannot learn the logic behind grammar rules if you do not know the letters. You cannot learn physiological mechanisms if you have not memorized anatomy terms. Only once you’ve memorized those foundational building blocks can you learn how to combine and apply them to form more complex ideas.

Thus, Rote Memorization and Cognitive Learning are not competing types of learning, they are best friends, each with its own mission in learning.

How Can Young Children Learn Through Cognitive Learning?

We’re in luck: Young children are naturally inclined towards Cognitive Learning as they are constantly trying to make sense of the world around them. Here are some ways Cognitive Learning can be facilitated in young children:

• Play-Based Learning: Through play, children can explore, experiment, and discover. Building with blocks, for instance, can help them understand concepts like gravity, balance, and spatial awareness.

• Storytelling and Reading: Stories not only improve language skills, but they also help children understand complex concepts, relationships, and emotions. Asking questions about the story can enhance their comprehension and critical thinking skills.

• Real-World Experiences: Everyday activities, like cooking or gardening, provide opportunities for children to learn. They can learn about measurements, observe plant growth, and more. This makes abstract concepts more concrete and relatable.

• Problem-Solving Activities: Puzzles, games, and open-ended toys (like building blocks or art supplies) encourage children to think creatively, make decisions, and learn from trial and error.

• Questioning and Exploration: Encourage children to ask questions and explore their surroundings. This curiosity drives Cognitive Learning and helps them make sense of the world.

• Making Connections: Help children connect new information to things they already know. For example, if they learn about animals in a book, relate it to a pet they have at home or animals they’ve seen at a zoo.

The key is to provide a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, exploration, and the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them.

How Can Adults Learn Through Cognitive Learning?

While children have a natural curiosity about the world around them, adult learners have the advantage of knowing a great deal about the world around them, and thus they can relate new learning material to what is already known to them. Here are some ways adults can implement Cognitive Learning in their own education:

• Active Engagement: Learners should actively engage with the material they’re trying to learn. This could mean taking notes, participating in discussions, teaching the material to someone else, or applying the knowledge in practical ways.

• Relating New to Known: Learners should connect new information to something they already know. For example, if learning a new language, associating new words with familiar ones can help to remember and understand them better.

• Problem-Solving: Solving problems or working on projects that require the use of new knowledge can help solidify that knowledge and make it more practical and relevant.

• Reflective Practices: Taking time to reflect on what has been learned, how it was learned, and how it connects to other knowledge can reinforce learning.

• Learning in Context: Ideally, learning should be done in the context in which the knowledge will be applied. For example, if learning a new software system, rather than just reading the manual, using the software to work on a real-life project can be much more effective.

What Can Teachers Do to Encourage Cognitive Learning?

Here are some strategies teachers can use to encourage deeper understanding and enhance their students’ learning experience:

• Active Learning: Encourage students to participate actively in their learning process. This can include class discussions, group work, presentations, or hands-on experiments.

• Problem-Based Learning: Use real-world, relatable problems to enable students to apply their knowledge and skills. This not only makes learning more relevant but also helps students understand the practical application of what they're learning.

• Concept Mapping: Have students create visual diagrams that show the relationships between different concepts. This helps students see the bigger picture and understand how different ideas connect.

• Scaffolding: Break complex topics into smaller, more manageable parts. Start with basic concepts and gradually move to more complex ones, ensuring each new concept builds on previous knowledge.

• Metacognitive Activities: Encourage students to think about their own thinking. This could involve self-reflection activities, learning journals, or discussions about problem-solving strategies.

• Relating New Information to Prior Knowledge: Help students make connections between new information and what they already know. This could be done through discussions, analogies, or examples that relate to students' experiences.

Many people find Cognitive Learning to be quite enjoyable because Cognitive Learning often involves active engagement with the material, which can include interactive activities, problem-solving tasks, group discussions, and practical applications of knowledge.