Which cognitive approach aids learners by allowing them to create personal links to new information?

The concept of elaboration is crucial in aiding learners to establish personal connections with new information. When learners elaborate on new material, they engage in a process that involves linking the new information to their existing knowledge and experiences. This connection fosters deeper understanding and retention, as individuals are more likely to remember information that they can relate to personally.

By using elaboration techniques, such as asking questions, making analogies, or integrating personal anecdotes, learners can transform abstract concepts into something more meaningful and relevant to their own lives. This deep processing encourages active engagement with the material, making it more memorable.

For instance, when studying a new concept in a training program, a learner might relate it to past experiences or connect it with their current job role, which not only aids in comprehension but also enhances long-term retention of the material. This process is particularly effective in educational and professional development settings, where the ability to synthesize new information with existing cognitive frameworks is essential for skill acquisition and application.