Ahmed Elmalla
Ahmed Elmalla
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Ahmed Elmalla

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How Working Memory and Prior Knowledge Shape Learning Success

How Working Memory and Prior Knowledge Shape Learning Success

How Working Memory and Prior Knowledge Shape Learning Success

Understanding how students learn is critical for educators, and two key factors play a massive role: working memory and prior knowledge. Whether students are quick "race car" learners or deliberate "hiker" learners, these elements influence how effectively they absorb and retain information.

1. Literacy and Working Memory

Did you know that literacy directly impacts working memory? Literate individuals can juggle about four items in their working memory, compared to just two for illiterate individuals. However, much like height, working memory has natural limits influenced by both genetics and the environment.

2. The Strength of "Hiker" Learners

"Hikers" may take longer to learn new concepts, but their struggles often lead to a deeper and more creative understanding. Psychologists call these "desirable difficulties," as the process of overcoming challenges builds stronger long-term memory links, setting hikers up for success.

3. Enhancing Working Memory with Long-Term Memory

While working memory has limitations, long-term memory provides a powerful assist. Students with a strong knowledge base can process complex information more effectively. For example, sports fans or chess players leverage their expertise to excel, even with average working memory capacity.

4. The Power of Practice and Knowledge Foundations

Practice is essential for building the neural connections that make learning easier. Foundational knowledge serves as the scaffolding for tackling advanced concepts. Whether learning a language, solving math problems, or building a robot, students thrive when they’ve mastered the basics.

5. Advice for Educators: Inspire and Build Foundations

As an educator, your role is to motivate and inspire your students, especially when the material gets challenging. Encourage practice and help students build foundational knowledge in long-term memory, as this is the key to their lasting success. Remember, Googling can’t replace the depth of understanding gained through a strong knowledge base.

Final Thoughts

Learning is a journey, whether it’s the fast lane of a race car or the scenic route of a hiker. By understanding the interplay between working memory, long-term memory, and prior knowledge, educators can equip every student with the tools to excel.

Source : Uncommon Sense Teaching