Physiological parameters and learning

Whilst much attention is paid to the quality and the avenues of presentation of educational material, there seems to be little consideration given to human physiological processes of information ingestion and assimilation when planning the educational experience. Human visual and aural information input is highly compressed in a lossy process. Subjective perceptions relating to past experiences are stored rather than actual data. Data assimilation rate is stunningly low in terms of learning, making many classroom endeavours futile. Information is stored according to its nature, in localised areas of the brain, and involves the consumption and eventual localised exhaustion of reagents such as calcium, sugar and oxygen. Periodic relief is required for replenishment. Presenting the information in different ways through different channels augments retention and understanding. Repetition is essential to firmly establish neural links or memory. In this paper, a brief review of such factors and how they might be considered in designing learning experiences is presented.