Information Processing Theory

Information processing theory can be described as one of the 4 learning elements,Information processing focuses on how information is retained from memory. Once a student begins to learn how to read the may be inclined to pick up on implicit and explicit learning. Implicit learning takes place naturally; you learn something without even thinking about it. This is much easier for younger learners to grasp because of repetition or practice. Explicit learning happens on purpose, for example a lesson being taught on bears. That is an intentional lesson.

While thinking about the information processing theory it is easily understood in a model example which includes, Sensory Register, Attention, Working Memory, Encoding (M.O.V.E.R), Long-Term Memory and Retrieval. Sensory Register this is when you are applying what you know about learning through using your senses, here there is no limit when it comes to how much information is learned and processed. Attention is a hard concept to hold on to especially while doing more than one thing at once. It’s crucial to keep yourself attentive to one thing at a time. Often times this is known as the Cocktail Party Effect. It is possible to be in an area and be so distracted that you don’t remember anything once you leave the party or situation. From the Sensory Register you float into your Working Memory, also known as short term memory. Surprisingly working memory only saves up to seven items at a time, it catches the surface information. Most timesthe information retrieved here is recited, repeated but not learned. When keeping up with terms in the working memory it is easy to chuck, rehearse and use prior knowledge. The harder something is to understand, the harder it Is to try to multitask.

Encoding information also known as MOVER. M is for meaning this is when a student takes new taught information and applies it to something you already know. O is for Organization, placing information in a way that can be connected and clearly understood. V is for Visual Imagery is when you form mental pictures of the information. E is for elaboration, and or adding new information on to old. R is for Rehearsal this is the least effective, information does not say in the brain. Following decoding you move to long term memory. Where information is stored forever.