Week 8: Learn something New

Quick Links:

Brain HQ site: https://v4.brainhq.com

Handout

Presentation

Quiz

Zoom: Wednesday session (6:30 - 8:30)

Zoom link: https://sdccd-edu.zoom.us/j/9191959460?pwd=OXh0RE9ZTVZTWElTMUQ0ZzAxQzExdz09.

Video: Learn how the brain adapts to learning new things. A recap of our lesson.

Notes from our class on Wednesday evening

View some notes about things mentioned in the Chat on Wednesday evening.

Notes from class.pdf

Learning in the brain

Learning is something we’ve done our entire lives, starting with our first steps and continuing as we develop new skills and knowledge. But how does this process actually work in the brain? And can understanding it help us become better learners? This handout will explore how the brain processes learning and offer ways to strengthen your ability to absorb and retain new information.

As we approach this lesson, you may recognize familiar concepts from previous classes this semester. Topics such as brain plasticity, sleep, physical activity, stress reduction, mindfulness, and music all play a role in how the brain adapts and forms new connections. For example, in last week’s lesson on music, we explored how listening to music leads to structural changes in the brain. These are the same type of changes that occur when we learn something new.

This repetition of ideas is intentional. By revisiting key concepts and seeing how they relate to different aspects of brain function, we reinforce our understanding and improve our ability to apply what we learn. And we will see today that repetition is one way to improve learning.

Throughout this semester, we have discovered that healthy brain habits require conscious effort. Whether it’s learning a new skill, reducing stress, or engaging in mindfulness, these activities actively shape our brains to function more efficiently for the tasks we want to accomplish. Understanding how learning happens at the neuronal level will help us make more informed choices about how to strengthen and maintain our cognitive abilities.

How the brain learns at the neuronal level

At its most basic level, learning happens when brain cells (neurons) communicate using electrical and chemical signals.

A new experience or piece of information activates a neuron, triggering an electrical impulse that travels down the neuron’s long fiber, called the axon. This process is known as action potential, where the neuron "fires" an electrical signal.
When the impulse reaches the axon terminal, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters—chemical messengers that carry the signal across the small gap between neurons, called the synapse.
Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the receiving neuron, generating a new electrical impulse. This process allows information to move through the brain, forming new neural pathways and strengthening existing ones.
The more frequently a pathway is used, the stronger and more efficient it becomes. Repeated activation—such as through practice and repetition—reinforces these connections, making information easier to recall.
Neurons grow tiny protrusions called dendritic spines, which increase the number of connections a neuron can make with others, improving learning and memory.
Over time, these strengthened connections shape behavior and skills. This is why repeated practice enhances abilities like reading, playing an instrument, or recalling facts—our brains become more efficient at processing and retrieving the information.

These refinements emphasize the role of electrical and chemical signaling, repeated activation, and structural changes (like dendritic spine growth) in learning.

Learning doesn’t just change individual neurons; it also affects how different parts of the brain communicate with each other. This is where white matter plays a crucial role.

Video: Nice introduction to learning in the brain

Very short view of what learning looks like in the brain

Gray matter and white matter are involved with learning

The brain is made up of two main types of tissue: gray matter and white matter. Each plays a unique role in how we learn and store information.

Nice video from Khan Academy which describes gray and white matter in the brain

What is Gray Matter?

Gray matter is the thinking part of the brain. It contains the nerve cells (neurons) that process information, store memories, and control movement, emotions, and decision-making.

How it looks: If you could look inside a real brain, gray matter appears darker and more dense than white matter. It is mostly found on the outer layer of the brain, known as the cerebral cortex. It is also found in smaller clusters deeper inside the brain, where it helps control movement and emotions.

What it does: Gray matter processes and interprets information from our senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell). It plays a key role in thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. It controls muscle movement, which is why injuries to the gray matter can affect coordination.

What is White Matter?

White matter is the communication network of the brain. It consists of long nerve fibers (axons) that connect different areas of gray matter, allowing signals to travel quickly from one part of the brain to another.

How it looks: White matter appears lighter in color because it is covered in a fatty substance called myelin, which gives it a pale, white appearance. It is found deep inside the brain, beneath the gray matter.

What it does: White matter transmits information between different parts of the brain. It allows for fast and efficient communication, helping us think, move, and respond quickly. It helps different brain regions work together, making learning and memory stronger.

How Gray and White Matter Work Together

Imagine gray matter as the computers in an office that process information, and white matter as the network of wires and internet connections that help those computers communicate with each other.

Gray matter does the thinking, processing new information, making decisions, and storing memories.

White matter sends messages, speeding up communication so different parts of the brain can work together.

Why This Matters for Learning

Learning strengthens gray matter by building new connections between neurons. Practicing skills improves white matter by increasing the myelin coating on axons, making communication faster and more efficient.

A healthy brain needs both—gray matter to think and white matter to keep everything running smoothly.

As we age, keeping both gray and white matter active through learning, social engagement, and physical activity helps maintain brain function and keeps our minds sharp.

Learning in the brain involves building and strengthening connections

When we learn something new, our brain forms tiny growths called dendritic spines on nerve cells. These spines strengthen over time, making it easier to recall information. The more we practice, the more permanent these connections become.

Dendritic spines are tiny, branch-like structures that grow on neurons (nerve cells). Think of them as little "antennae" that help neurons connect and communicate with each other. When we learn something new, our brain forms more dendritic spines, strengthening our ability to remember and recall information. These spines act like mini contact points where neurons send and receive messages. The more we practice or repeat an activity, the stronger and more stable these connections become. However, if we stop using certain skills or memories, dendritic spines shrink or disappear, which is why "use it or lose it" applies to learning! Keeping the brain active helps maintain these important connections.

When we learn something new, the brain changes both in its structure (the way it is physically built) and function (how well it processes information). These changes happen in two key areas:

Gray matter, which contains neurons and forms new connections.
White matter, which helps different brain areas communicate more efficiently.

One of the most important factors in learning is myelin, a special substance that protects nerve fibers and speeds up communication in the brain. Let’s explore what it does and how it works.

What is Myelin?

Myelin is a fatty, white substance that wraps around nerve fibers (axons), acting like insulation on electrical wires. This coating allows signals to travel much faster and with greater accuracy. Without myelin, brain signals would be slow and uncoordinated, making it difficult to learn and process information. Myelin is white, which is why this area of the brain is regarded as white matter.

Imagine myelin as the difference between:

• A well-paved, high-speed freeway (with myelin), where information moves quickly and efficiently.

• A bumpy, dirt road (without myelin), where signals move slowly and sometimes get lost.

In learning, the brain adds or adjusts myelin in key areas to improve communication. This process helps us master skills, remember information, and react more quickly.

Video: Nice video on myelin and glial cells

How Myelin Improves Learning

• Myelin wraps around axons, forming protective layers that speed up signals between neurons.

• It prevents signal loss, ensuring accurate communication between brain regions.

• As we practice a new skill, the brain adds more myelin to the circuits involved, making learning more efficient.

For example:

• Musicians have more myelin in areas of the brain that control finger movements.

• Bilingual speakers have thicker myelin in areas involved in language.

• Athletes develop myelin changes in motor control areas that help with balance and coordination.

The Role of Glia Cells in Learning

Glia cells are the supporting cells of the brain. They don’t send electrical signals like neurons do, but they play a major role in learning by controlling myelin. There are two types of glia cells involved in this process:

1. Oligodendrocytes: The Myelin Makers

Oligodendrocytes wrap axons with myelin, forming the protective coating that speeds up signals. They respond to learning by increasing myelin in the areas of the brain that are being used. If an axon is frequently activated (like when practicing a skill), oligodendrocytes add more myelin to improve performance. Think of oligodendrocytes as "construction workers" that build myelin highways to speed up information flow.

2. Astrocytes: The Myelin Managers

Astrocytes help fine-tune myelin by adjusting its thickness. They release special chemicals that can thin the myelin layer when slower transmission is needed. They also support and protect neurons, making sure they receive enough nutrients. Astrocytes act like "traffic controllers", making sure signals travel at the right speed.

Video: A basic introduction to glia cells

Why Myelin and Glia Cells Matter for Learning

When we learn something new, the brain must adjust the speed of information processing. It does this by:

• Strengthening connections between neurons in gray matter.

• Adding or modifying myelin in white matter.

• Using glia cells to ensure signals travel efficiently.

If myelin is too thin, signals move too slowly (which can cause thinking and memory problems).

If myelin is too thick, signals move too fast and out of sync (which can contribute to conditions like schizophrenia).

By keeping our brains active and engaged, we encourage healthy myelin production, improving learning and memory throughout life.

Video: A fun video which describes glia and specifically microglia and how it affects our brain

The role of brain waves in learning

The brain learns by sending electrical signals between different regions, creating rhythmic patterns known as brain waves or oscillations. These waves play a crucial role in how we process, store, and retrieve information. By synchronizing activity across different parts of the brain, oscillations help us think clearly, solve problems, and retain new knowledge.

Brain waves are especially important in learning because they help connect key brain regions, such as:

• The prefrontal cortex (responsible for thinking and decision-making) and the hippocampus (the center of memory and learning). These connections allow us to organize thoughts, recall information, and apply past experiences to new situations.

• The sensory and motor areas, which coordinate movement and thought, making it easier to learn physical tasks, like playing an instrument or driving a car.

During learning, brain waves adjust their frequency and synchronization to strengthen neural connections. This process helps reinforce new information and makes recall easier over time. When brain wave activity is well-coordinated, learning feels smooth and efficient. However, if these waves are disrupted—due to fatigue, stress, or lack of focus—learning and memory can become more difficult.

Understanding how brain waves support learning helps us see why activities like focused practice, deep thinking, and rest are essential for strengthening memory and improving cognitive function.

Brain waves for learning

Sleep and Memory: Learning while you sleep

Sleep is essential for learning because it allows the brain to strengthen new memories and organize information. While we sleep, the brain remains active, replaying and reinforcing what we learned during the day. This process, known as memory consolidation, helps transfer short-term memories into long-term storage, making recall easier in the future.

During deep sleep (slow-wave sleep), the hippocampus (the brain’s memory center) replays recent experiences, strengthening connections with the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for thinking and decision-making. This replay helps solidify what we’ve learned, especially facts, skills, and problem-solving strategies. In REM sleep, when dreaming occurs, the brain makes deeper connections between ideas, allowing for creativity and insight.

Without enough sleep, these processes are disrupted, making it harder to absorb new information and recall what we’ve learned. Prioritizing quality sleep—especially after studying or practicing a skill—can significantly enhance learning, problem-solving, and memory retention.

What helps the brain to learn better?

1. Repetition and Practice

Repetition strengthens brain connections, making information easier to recall. The more you repeat something, the stronger the memory becomes.

2. Avoiding Overload

Learning too much at once can overwhelm the brain. Breaking information into small chunks and taking breaks can help the brain process it better.

3. Visual Learning

Images and animations can make learning easier. Our brains process pictures faster than words, so using diagrams or visual aids can help retain information.

4. Understanding the Big Picture

The brain likes to understand the overall idea before focusing on small details. Creating mind maps or summaries can make learning more effective.

5. Sleep and Learning

A good night’s sleep before and after learning helps the brain absorb and store new information. Research shows that lack of sleep can reduce learning ability by up to 40%.

6. Teaching Others

Explaining what you’ve learned to someone else helps solidify your understanding. Teaching forces the brain to organize information in a meaningful way.

7. Mixing Up Learning Methods (Interleaving)

Instead of practicing the same thing over and over, try switching between different topics or skills. This method, called interleaving, improves pattern recognition and adaptability.

Free online learning opportunities

Here are some free learning opportunities online and in person.

You can download this information by clicking here.

In person or local opportunities

SDCCE: For in person, you can include our classes at sdcce.edu. Find the Emeritus classes here: https://sdcce.edu/emeritus Or, view Emeritus classes on our student website (sdcestudent55.com).

SD Libraries: Also, the San Diego County Library offers a variety of free classes for adults, including:

Citizenship Education: Classes to prepare for the naturalization test and interview.
ESL (English as a Second Language): Classes to improve English speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Health & Wellness: Programs focused on staying active, managing stress, and leading a healthier life.
Digital Skills & Technology: Free computer and technology classes to enhance digital literacy.
Financial Wellness Wednesdays: Free webinars on financial topics presented by San Diego County Credit Union representatives.
Emergency Readiness and Safety: Practical tips and training on emergency preparedness.
Library High School: While not a traditional class, it offers a free program to earn an accredited high school diploma online.
Tuition-free Classes from Southwestern Community College: ESL, Tai Chi, and Computer & Technology classes are available at select library branches.

Parks and Recreation: View the calendar on the official site: https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/activities

Outdoor learning: San Diego also offers opportunities to learn while enjoying the outdoors. You can find information here: https://www.sdparks.org/content/sdparks/en/participate/OutdoorExperiencesforAll.html

Here are some free online sites for lifelong learning tailored for older adults:

Academic Earth: (https://academicearth.org/) Offers thousands of free lectures from top universities like Princeton, Harvard, and Oxford
Alison: (https://alison.com/) Provides free courses in technology, health, math, language, humanities, marketing, science, business, and lifestyle
Coursera: (https://www.coursera.org/) Features a wide range of courses from universities worldwide, including some free options
Khan Academy: (https://www.khanacademy.org/) Offers free courses in subjects like math, science, and humanities
edX: (https://www.edx.org/) Provides free courses from leading institutions, with options to earn certifications
MIT OpenCourseWare: (https://ocw.mit.edu/) Free access to MIT course materials
Open Culture: (https://www.openculture.com/) Lists over 1,000 free online courses from universities worldwide

Specialized Resources

Senior Planet from AARP: (https://seniorplanet.org/) Offers live online classes in finance, wellness, fitness, computers, and technology specifically for seniors
YouTube:( https://www.youtube.com/) A vast collection of educational videos on various topics, including hobbies and skills
Open Learning Initiative (Carnegie Mellon): (https://oli.cmu.edu/) Self-paced courses, though mostly paid, with some free options available
Open Yale Courses: (https://oyc.yale.edu/) Free access to Yale lectures without registration
Stanford Free Courses: (https://online.stanford.edu/free-courses) Offers free courses from Stanford University

Additional Resources

AARP Website:( https://www.aarp.org/) Provides guides and resources for lifelong learning
Libby (through local libraries): (https://libbyapp.com/) Access to digital books, magazines, and courses, including The Great Courses

Summary

Our lesson focused on learning in the brain. We discussed that the brain learns through a complex process involving electrical impulses, neurons, and myelin, all working together to form and strengthen connections. Learning occurs when neurons fire together, reinforcing their connections and making it easier to recall information.

As we practice and study, gray matter grows, creating new pathways for processing and storing knowledge. At the same time, white matter (myelin) improves brain communication by speeding up signals between different areas of the brain, allowing for faster thinking and better coordination of ideas.

To enhance learning and memory, key strategies such as repetition, practice, sleep, and teaching others play a crucial role. The more we engage with new information, the stronger these brain connections become, making learning more efficient and lasting.

Understanding the process of learning will motivate you to learn more things. Your result will be a healthier, more efficient brain.

Resources

Cooper, B. B. (2016, April 26). Six Things You Should Know About How Your Brain Learns. Retrieved from lifehacker.com: https://lifehacker.com/six-things-you-should-know-about-how-your-brain-learns-1773183447

Dam, N. (2013, April). Inside the Learning Brain. Retrieved from td.org: https://www.td.org/magazines/td-magazine/inside-the-learning-brain

Dinse, H. e. (2020, July 21). Scientists Observe Learning Processes Online in the Brain. Retrieved from neurosciencenews.com: https://neurosciencenews.com/learning-brain-16677/

Fields, R. D. (2020, March). The Brain Learns in Unexpected Ways. Retrieved from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8284127/

Fields, R. D. (2020, March 1). The Brain Learns in Unexpected Ways. Retrieved from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8284127/

Gutierrez, K. (2014, June 19). How the Brain Learns—A Super Simple Explanation for eLearning Professionals. Retrieved from shiftelearning.com: https://www.shiftelearning.com/blog/bid/348918/How-the-Brain-Learns-A-Super-Simple-Explanation-for-eLearning-Professionals

Klemm, W. (2020, January 7). How Does Learning Change the Brain? Retrieved from psychologytoday.com: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/memory-medic/202001/how-does-learning-change-the-brain

Pritchard, K. (2019, May 14). How does the brain learn. Retrieved from elearning.adobe.com: https://elearning.adobe.com/2019/05/how-does-the-brain-learn/

Sarrasin, J. B. (2020, May 14). Understanding Your Brain to Help You Learn Better. Retrieved from kids.frontiersin.org: https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2020.00054

Thomas Jefferson University. (2018, April). What learning looks like in the brain. Retrieved from eurekalert.org: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/710646

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