How Does the Brain Work? How Does It Learn?
The human brain is the organ that possesses the highest level of complexity. Approximately one hundred billion neurons and one hundred trillion synaptic connections are contained within this intricate organ, which is responsible for our ability to think, feel, act, and learn.
It controls everything that we do, from the most fundamental body functions to the most intricate thoughts and feelings that we experience.
In the following paragraphs, we will discuss the inner workings of the brain as well as the process by which it acquires knowledge.
Neurons, which are extraordinarily small nerve cells, are at the core of the brain's ability to perform its functions. By continuously transmitting and receiving electrical signals, these neurons function in a manner similar to that of a vast communication network.
There are two types of structures that are present in every neuron: dendrites, which are branching structures that receive information from other neurons, and axons, which are long fibres that transport electrical impulses.
The place at which neurons connect with one another is referred to as a synapse. Exactly here is where the enchantment of education takes place.
Repetitive firing of a neuron results in the strengthening of connections between that neuron and the neurons that are located nearby.
The process by which our brains learn and produce memories is referred to as synaptic plasticity, and it provides the basis for this strengthening.
The brain is not a single, indistinguishable mass. For a variety of purposes, several locations have developed specialised capabilities.
When it comes to higher-level processes, such as thinking, planning, and sensory perception, the cerebral cortex, which is the wrinkled outer layer, is the one responsible for these functions.
Certain regions of the cortex are responsible for taking in information from our senses. Take, for instance, the occipital lobe, which is responsible for vision, and the temporal lobe, which is responsible for hearing and memory.
Additional regions of the brain that are of great significance include the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordinating movement and balance, and the limbic system, which is responsible for dealing with feelings and motivation.
It is possible for us to engage with the world and gain knowledge from our experiences because all of these regions operate together in a seamless manner.
So how exactly does coming into contact with new information result in learning? When we are exposed to anything novel, certain parts of the brain become active, and the neurons that are contained within those regions begin to send out electrical impulses.
The connections (synapses) that exist between these neurons eventually become more robust as a result of repeated exposure or practice. By making it possible for the brain to communicate impulses in a more effective manner, this strengthening serves as the foundation for memory.
In addition, the brain is able to consolidate memories when sleeping. The act of sleeping helps to consolidate memory traces by reiterating patterns of brain activity that are connected with previously learnt information.
Therefore, getting a sufficient amount of sleep each night is really vital for acquiring new knowledge and remembering it.