Many different brain processes influence how you learn. Based on a broad synthesis of research on the mind and learning, the eight categories of mental processes below provide a framework for better understanding learning and learning variation. This framework has been used by thousands of educators, clinicians, and others to better meet the learning needs of individual students.
Each of us has an individual combination of relative strengths and weaknesses among these processes. These influence what we are good at doing, where we are more likely to struggle, and how we learn best. In short, they help to describe what you “look like” as a learner. Learn more about the value of having this insight about yourself.
Attention
Maintaining mental energy, processing incoming information, regulating work and behavior
Complex Thinking
Comprehending concepts, generating original ideas, using logic
Language
Understanding spoken and written information, communicating ideas orally and in writing
Memory
Mentally holding, storing, and retrieving information
Controlling Movement
Coordinating muscles both large (as in legs) and small (as in fingers and hands)
Getting Along With Others
Cooperating with others effectively, managing social interactions, nurturing positive relationships
Spatial Thinking
Understanding and generating visual information, organizing materials and spaces
Keeping Track of Time and Order
Understanding and generating sequenced information, organizing time and schedules
Learn More:
The All Kinds of Minds website offers a variety of resources based on the eight learning processes above:
- All Kinds of Minds Parent Toolkit: Explore more information and strategies for these mental processes of learning.
- Learning Library: Gain additional insight into learning processes, management strategies, and case studies.
- Online modules: Try free interactive modules that provide a deeper look at memory, and attention.
- Schools for All Kinds of Minds: Boosting Student Success by Embracing Learning Variation: Read a chapter of this guide for school leaders interested in bringing the science of learning into their classrooms.
