LESSON 4

LEARNING TO BE A BETTER STUDENT

I. MODULE OVERVIEW

According to neuroscientist, learning new knowledge and skills everyday keeps the
structure of the brain changing and increases its ability to learn. This chapter discusses theories
and concepts that explains the nature and dimensions of learning. Metacognition and self-
regulated learning are also discussed along with suggestion and strategies on how to improve
learning and become a better student.

II. DESIRED LEARNING OUTCOME

At the end of this topic, the students should be able to:
1. Explain learning and how it works in human;
2. Identify the parts of the brain involve in learning;
3. Describe the importance of neuroplasticity and its implication in learning; and
4. Choose and apply strategies to improve learning.

III. TAKE OFF/MOTIVATION

A quote to ponder:

“The person who is truly educated is the one who has learned how to learn and change”
- Carl Rogers

IV. CONTENT FOCUS

LEARNING

Behaviorist define learning as a relatively permanent change in behavior as a result of

practice and experiences. Cognitive psychologist define learning also as a process that leads to
change as a result of experience. Its transformational process that leads to growth and
development. Learning will help an individual adapt to the changing environment. It starts at
birth and never stops by then. It can be acquired through direct or indirect experiences.
Individuals can learn through observation and imitation. Learning is very important to human
beings because it drive them to discover new knowledge, technologies and interventions.

Learning Is the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and

attitudes through experience. It is a
transformational process that leads to personal
growth and development.

Neuroplasticity Is the ability of the brain to change throughout

 one’s life.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BRAIN DURING LEARNING

Humans has the greatest capacity to adapt to new environment and learn new skills.
Development and learning are powerful agents of change throughout one’s life that induce
structural and functional plasticity in the neural systems of the brain (Galvan, 2010). During
neuroplasticity it involves addition new neurons, new interconnections between neurons, and the
reorganization of information processing area. The ability of the brain to change happens in two
ways; it could be through an increase in the number of synapses between neurons or a change in
the function and structure of the neurons.

Neurons are the basic building clock of the nervous system that transmit impulses or
messages. Every neuron is made up of cell body (soma), dendrites, and axon. Neurons vary
according to their functions and locations. The impulses that travel through them are
electrochemical in nature. A neuron transmit impulses or messages to another neuron through a
junction called synapse and because of it, they are not really connected with each other.
Neurotransmitters are the electrochemicals that connect and allow the transmission of impulses
from one neuron to another. Several of these such as acetylcholine, glutamate, dopamine, and
norepinephrine are associated with memory and learning.

PART FUNTION
CELL The cell body carries genetic
BODY information, maintains the
(SOMA) neuron's structure, and provides
energy to drive activities.
DENDRITES They function to obtain
information from other cells and
carry that information to the cell
body (receiving info).
AXON The function of the axon is to
carry efferent (outgoing) action
potentials and conduct nerve https://www.google.com/imgres?
impulse away from the cell body imgurl=https%3A%2F
to a synapse (sending info). %2Fwww.neuroskills.com%2Fimages

The process of neuroplasticity, or changes in the structure and functions of the neurons in
the brain, usually happens in the cerebral cortex which is the wrinkled layer of the brain. It is
packed with neurons and is responsible for the most sophisticated information processing in the
brain. The cortex is divided into four lobes: frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital. Each lobe is
responsible for each sensory information. The cerebral cortex also plays a key role in human
learning, thought, memory, and language (Rathus, 2017). Although the brain continues to grow
and develop throughout one’s life the overall number of neurons and synapses declines with age.
Thus, Dr. Michael Merzenich, a leader in the field of neuroplasticity research, suggest that
learning new knowledge and skills everyday keeps the structure of the brain in constant change
which increases ability to learn.
METACOGNITION AND SELF-REGULATED LEARNING
METACOGNITION Is the awareness of one’s thinking and the strategies one uses to learn.
Metacognition is simply defined as cognition or thinking about thinking.
Psychologist John Flavell (Lai, 2011) identifies two components of
metacognition: metacognitive knowledge and metacognitive regulations.
METACOGNITIVE Includes knowledge of one’s own cognitive abilities, knowledge of
KNOWLEDGE cognitive task, and knowledge of the strategies to complete the cognitive
tasks.
METACOGNITIVE Refers to how an individual monitors and controls his or her cognitive
REGULATION processes.

Zimmerman (2002) defines self-regulated learning (SRL) as the process in which

students systematically direct their thoughts, feelings, and actions toward the attainment of their
academic goals. It is a process of taking control of and evaluating one’s own learning and
behavior. It is self-directed process through which students transform their mental abilities into
academic skills. It is also called cyclical process in which the students for a task, monitors his or
her performances, and reflects on the outcome. The cycle is then repeated as the student uses his
or her reflections to adjust and prepare for the next task. Thus, students practice their self-
regulation learning by setting goals, selecting and using strategies, monitoring their performance,
and reflecting on their learning outcomes (Zimmerman, 2008). Consequently, the three essential
components of self-regulated learning are planning, problem solving, and self-evaluation.
Planning increases efficiency, control, and motivation. Problem-solving allows the students to
learn to think and look for solutions when faced with adversities. Self-evaluation increases self-
awareness that leads to better understanding of one’s own emotions, strength, and weaknesses.

GENERAL BENEFITS OF METACOGNITION AND SELF-REGULATION IN LEARNING

 Increases students’ knowledge and understanding of different subject matter.
 Help students understand the kinds of information they need to successfully solve a problem in
school.
 Help the students choose the most appropriate and useful learning strategies to improve their
learning capabilities.
 Help students organize daily tasks in school
 Help students identify strength and weaknesses in the academic performances.
 Allow the students to learn ideas from others such as their teachers and fellow students.
 Allow students to give and receive feedback in their own thinking and performance.
 Develop students; autonomy and control.
 Improve students’ academic performance and help them become successful.
 Develop students’ high sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.

HOW TO DEVELOP METACOGNITVE AND SELF-REGULATED LEARNING

BEHAVIOURS
 Set your short-term and long-term academic goals in your students. Identify the negative
outcomes if you don’t achieve your goals as well as the positive outcomes when you achieve
them.
  Make a self-help plan to achieve your academic goals. Think and select strategies to achieve your
goals such as staying focused, avoiding destructions, and developing skills to manage your time
efficiently.
 Monitor your academic performance and progress. Use as chart to monitor your work outcomes.
When faced with difficult task, seek social support when you need it. Look for inspiration to keep
you motivated in achieving your academic goals. When confronted with difficulties, always think
and keep working toward your goals and the future.
Reflect on what you have learned and accomplished. Reflection helps you develop your strengths and
overcome your weaknesses.