Cognitive Learning Theory
Cognitive learning is using our brains to understand through thinking, remembering and solving problems. Cognition is the process of thinking. Cognitive (or mental) awareness is an understanding of what’s going on around you.
Put aside, for a moment, the physical skills involved in driving a vehicle. Concentrate on the cognitive abilities you need each time you get behind the wheel. Your brain needs access to:
the rules of the road
distance and estimation calculations
visual and auditory information
spatial awareness
We engaged cognitively to process and remember those. We rehearse and reuse them when we drive. Each one, on its own, is a vast pile of data. Our advanced brains can switch between them, combine them, discard them, and interpret in an instant.
Not surprisingly, children have the same capacity.
Spoiler alert: we’re not talking about driving now. I used driving as an example of the complexities of cognitive learning. And yes, children have that same capacity.
Cognitive learning is powerful when handled correctly. Combined with last month’s topic, social learning, it is a potent tool for thinking.
Solving problems is the best way to learn cognitively. Children love puzzles. Create some around their chores. Challenge them to devise new ways to fold their clothes, for instance.
Have them plan that driving holiday with you. Depending on the child’s age, deepen the pool by adding a monetary aspect to the trip. Set them a daily budget before they plan. Discuss where to eat, how much to spend, travel distances, and where to purchase fuel.
