Cognitive learning greatly impacts how children store, process, grasp, and relate the knowledge they acquire in their daily lives, so it's important to foster their memory and maximize their brain's potential. 
At Colegio Londres, we always strive to promote proper cognitive learning in our students. That's why, in this article, we share what it is, the types that exist, and how it can benefit your children's academic development.
What is cognitive learning?
Cognition is the ability of human beings to absorb new information, as well as the processing carried out by the brain to interpret it and give it meaning. In this sense, cognitive learning is defined as the accumulation of knowledge acquired throughout life, through study, the senses, thoughts, one's own experiences, and how information is processed. Cognitive learning aims to optimize the ability to learn, understand, and retain new information. It also allows the brain to connect new information with existing knowledge.
Types of cognitive learning
There are different types of cognitive learning; here, we share the most important ones:
Implicit learning
This learning style occurs accidentally, as individuals are unaware that they are learning; examples of this acquired knowledge are speaking, walking, or eating, which are processes that occur automatically.
Explicit learning
Explicit learning involves intentionally and consciously acquiring new knowledge or skills by performing voluntary actions, such as learning to play an instrument, picking up a book and studying a specific topic, conducting research, etc.
Meaningful learning
In meaningful learning, students can connect existing knowledge and experiences with new information, assigning meaning to them, which allows for the acquisition of new concepts and ideas.
Emotional learning
Through this type of learning, students learn to understand and control their emotions and understand other people, which is essential for their development as individuals, their acquisition of values, and their interpersonal relationships.
Experiential learning
Learning is best achieved through experience. This type of cognitive process takes place throughout life, learning different lessons through daily experiences, although the acquisition of knowledge depends on the level of reflection and introspection one has.
Cooperative learning
Learning is encouraged through collaboration, teamwork, and relationships with other students, contributing new ideas, information, and concepts. The goal is to enable each student to develop different skills.
What are the benefits of cognitive learning?
Cognitive learning offers several benefits that can be reflected in students' academic performance and even in their future professional lives. Among the most notable are:
Troubleshooting
One of the skills acquired in this learning process is the ability to solve problems, which can be applied in the classroom and everyday situations.
Greater confidence
There is an increase in confidence to face different challenges and challenging tasks that arise, thanks to the ability to apply the knowledge acquired to find a solution.
Better understanding
Through cognitive learning, students develop a deeper understanding of new concepts, topics ,and information, easily acquiring new knowledge.
Continuous learning
Continuous and rapid learning is achieved because it allows prior knowledge to be connected with new information, and it also improves skills such as memory, concentration, and association skills.
Cognitive activities to apply in the classroom
Through games and various activities, it's possible to foster the development of skills that are essential for proper cognitive learning in students. At Colegio Londres, we share some examples:
- Memory games
- Puzzle
- Reading comprehension
- Read texts and ask questions related to the topic
- Sing songs
- Follow sequences
- Do teamwork
- Perform physical activities
- Visual, tactile, and auditory perception exercises
Conclusion
Cognitive learning plays a vital role in shaping how students process, retain, and apply knowledge in both academic and everyday contexts. By understanding its different types—implicit, explicit, meaningful, emotional, experiential, and cooperative—educators can create more effective strategies to help students grow intellectually and personally. The benefits, such as improved problem-solving, confidence, and continuous learning, extend far beyond the classroom, preparing children for lifelong success. At Colegio Londres, we implement engaging activities that foster memory, creativity, and collaboration, ensuring that each student develops the tools they need to reach their full potential. Nurturing cognitive learning not only enhances academic performance but also empowers students to thrive in an ever-changing world.
