Connecting New Information to Long-Term Memories: A Path to Better Learning
Remembering new information can be challenging, especially when we need to retain that information for an extended period. However, research has shown that we can improve our learning by connecting new information to our long-term memories.
So, how can this be achieved? Let’s take a closer look.
The Science Behind Long-Term Memories
To understand how we can connect new information to our long-term memories, we must first understand how long-term memories work.
Our brains store memories in three stages: sensory, short-term, and long-term. Information perceived by our senses enters our sensory memory, which holds information for a few seconds. Then, the information that we pay attention to goes into our short-term memory, which can hold information for up to 20 seconds. Finally, if the information is repeated or rehearsed, it can enter our long-term memory, where it can be stored for a long time.
Example: Consider that you learned how to ride a bike when you were a child, and it is still a skill you can perform. It means that this information is stored in your long-term memory.
Connecting New Information to Long-Term Memories
One way to connect new information to our long-term memories is to engage in elaborative rehearsal. The elaborative rehearsal involves taking new information and linking it to existing knowledge stored in our long-term memory. By doing so, we can make new information more meaningful and easier to recall, and this connection strengthens the existing long-term memory connection.
Example: If you want to remember a new person’s name, you can link their name to an existing memory, such as their occupation or what they are wearing.
Another way to connect new information to our long-term memories is to engage in spaced repetition. Spaced repetition involves repeating the information over an extended period, with increasingly longer intervals between repetitions. This method allows the brain to consolidate the information in long-term memory.
Example: If you want to learn a new language, you can engage in spaced repetition by practicing new words and phrases over time, gradually increasing the intervals between practice.
Benefits of Connecting New Information to Long-Term Memories
Connecting new information to our long-term memories has numerous benefits. For one, it helps us remember important information for longer periods, which can help improve our overall understanding of the topic. Additionally, it makes it easier to retrieve this information when it is needed in the future.
Furthermore, connecting new information to long-term memories can help us better understand the context and relevance of the information. It can also improve our decision-making abilities and problem-solving skills by building on existing knowledge and connections.
Conclusion
To sum up, connecting new information to our long-term memories is an effective way to improve our learning abilities. By engaging in elaborative rehearsal and spaced repetition, we can strengthen the connections between new and existing knowledge, making it easier to recall and apply information when needed. Ultimately, this can lead to improved decision making, problem-solving, and a better overall understanding of the topic.
