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Brain Works: Scientific approach to learning
3 year(s) ago • 3243 views • 2 replies
AFBlack beltVerified
3 year(s) ago
At an advanced training I attended recently they spoke on the nature of how one learns, and more importantly effectively applies knowledge.
The process seems simple.
Cognitive, associative, and autonomic.
For jiu jitsu they pointed out that’s single techniques are a cognitive approach. Repetition will reinforce it. Like Roy Dean says this can be the letters or words of the art.
The next step, ideally with time permitting would be associative. The Gracie’s call it reflex development drills. 10th planet calls them warm ups. This builds off of peoples naturally ability in pattern recognition. Stringing together what they learn and seeing it’s naturally next step. You could even consider these a kata.
Lastly is autonomic. Automatic recall, or muscle memory. Through rest and myelin sheathing increase connection from brain and spinal cord. The encouragement was to utilize this and the three elements tethered to a auditory, visual, and kinesthetic teaching.
That’s a lot of word vomit, but I find the process of learning to be fascinating. For those who teach how do you like to go about it? And for those who learn (all of us I imagine) what do you feel benefits you most.
I hope you all are doing well wherever you are. Hope to see you on the mats.
The process seems simple.
Cognitive, associative, and autonomic.
For jiu jitsu they pointed out that’s single techniques are a cognitive approach. Repetition will reinforce it. Like Roy Dean says this can be the letters or words of the art.
The next step, ideally with time permitting would be associative. The Gracie’s call it reflex development drills. 10th planet calls them warm ups. This builds off of peoples naturally ability in pattern recognition. Stringing together what they learn and seeing it’s naturally next step. You could even consider these a kata.
Lastly is autonomic. Automatic recall, or muscle memory. Through rest and myelin sheathing increase connection from brain and spinal cord. The encouragement was to utilize this and the three elements tethered to a auditory, visual, and kinesthetic teaching.
That’s a lot of word vomit, but I find the process of learning to be fascinating. For those who teach how do you like to go about it? And for those who learn (all of us I imagine) what do you feel benefits you most.
I hope you all are doing well wherever you are. Hope to see you on the mats.
JBlack belt 1st degreeVerified
3 year(s) ago
Hi Austin. Lots of good stuff there. I would submit that we shouldn't get wrapped up (pun intended) on myelin sheathing. That comes naturally with repetitive ensemble activity. It doesn't just go from brain to spine though. It activates down to the farthest neurons from the brain. Think about the first time you heard the term "monkey feet" compared to how naturally you probably do it now.
If you haven't already explored Bloom's Taxonomy, that would be a fabulous path to travel. Specifically, it deals with levels of understanding.
remembering - I can remember an Americana and what it looks like.
understanding - I understand the joints and angles involved in the American.
applying- I can achieve this submission on a cooperative training partner without error.
analyzing- I can recognize my own errors in the application of the Americana.
evaluating - I can place value on this submission and how it plays into my individual BJJ game.
creating- I can create new versions of the Americana in various positions by applying the concepts learned.
I have been teaching a class a week for about two years now. My focus is always on concepts instead of just a specific and detailed technique or movement. That way a student can find their own flow through the concept. I liken it to being able to score a touchdown on a broken play. Just because the technique isn't perfect doesn't mean I can't get the concept to be effective.
Beyond the obvious psychological texts and papers out there, a good training primer is Siddle's "Sharpening the Warrior's Edge."
If you haven't already explored Bloom's Taxonomy, that would be a fabulous path to travel. Specifically, it deals with levels of understanding.
remembering - I can remember an Americana and what it looks like.
understanding - I understand the joints and angles involved in the American.
applying- I can achieve this submission on a cooperative training partner without error.
analyzing- I can recognize my own errors in the application of the Americana.
evaluating - I can place value on this submission and how it plays into my individual BJJ game.
creating- I can create new versions of the Americana in various positions by applying the concepts learned.
I have been teaching a class a week for about two years now. My focus is always on concepts instead of just a specific and detailed technique or movement. That way a student can find their own flow through the concept. I liken it to being able to score a touchdown on a broken play. Just because the technique isn't perfect doesn't mean I can't get the concept to be effective.
Beyond the obvious psychological texts and papers out there, a good training primer is Siddle's "Sharpening the Warrior's Edge."
AFBlack beltVerified
3 year(s) ago
Thanks for the resources! I’ve been able to do mor BJJ labs here at training facility. Just experimenting with what works and it lines up with all that you’ve said. Just a cool process of exploring mental faculties.
