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Not many people realize the difference between academic learning and cognitive learning, when in fact they are very different. Academic learning is primarily concerned with how much material you go through, while cognitive learning stresses the depth of understanding. Simply put, cognitive learning is concerned with how well you learn, rather than how much you learn. By extension, though, the deeper your understanding, the faster you can learn things, so in the end volume of learning is the result.

The cognitive learning style is based on the precepts of cognitivism. This theory suggests that learning is not achieved through repetition, in contrast to the theory of behaviorism. Instead, learning is strongly influenced by the individual’s brain structure and capabilities. Memory plays an important part in processing the information, which is then better stored in memory after “arrangement” and further processing. In so processing, prior knowledge is used as building blocks or points of comparison.

In order to properly employ cognitive teaching styles, it is necessary to identify which cognitive skills are strong and which are weak in the student. Due to the more personalized approach of this style, the size of the class is often limited. After testing, it becomes possible for the educator to formulate plans for the class. Some of these cognitive skills are connected to the sensory systems, namely vision and hearing. Others are long-term memory, short-term memory, logic and reasoning, comprehension, and focus. Each of these skills can be sub-divided into sub-skills, like discrimination, analysis, blending, and segmentation sub-skills for the main skill of auditory processing.

The implication of a weak cognitive skill means that information presented using that particular skill will fail to make an educational impact. On the other hand, if the cognitive skill is strong, learning is quick and easy, almost natural, in fact, and very likely enjoyable for the student.

Tailor-fitting the activities in the classroom is the key to achieving success through the cognitive learning approach. If the student is more inclined to learn from visual processing, as evidenced by his tests, then visual aids are to be the main tool of choice. The auditory learner is more likely to learn from listening to explanations. Those with high powers of logic and reasoning are more able to deal with numbers, while those who comprehend better can gain more from reading. There is no strict, unified method for the cognitive method, but cognitive methods are constant in the fact that they are meant to utilize particular cognitive skills to maximize learning.

More definite techniques for visual learners are writing words down on the board, using pictures, diagrams, and timelines. For auditory learners we have repeating difficult words and explanations on complicated concepts, encouraging group discussions and debates, as well as listening to recorded audio lessons. There are also learners who are described as tactile or kinesthetic, so applicable techniques are hands-on activities, projects, role-playing, and taking regular breaks to release tension by moving about.

There are many resources for cognitive learning on the Internet, so those who are particularly interested should look it up. Try using a search engine; it will surely turn up a wealth of resources.

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