How the Brain Listens and Learns
Ron Gutierrez. CBIS Clinical Examiner
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Every second of every day we are bombarded with stimuli from the world around us. Specialized receptors, called sensory receptors, are responsible for collecting this information. There are receptors for sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, and equilibrium. The receptors transmit the information to our brain for processing.

Specialized cells in the brain, called neurons, are responsible for the processing of information. Within our brains we have 50 to 100 billion of these cells. They are considered the basic structural units of the nervous system. Neurons conduct messages in the form of nerve impulses from one part of the body to another. Operation of the nervous system depends on the flow of information through chains of neurons, which are connected by synapses. These synapses are the junctions that mediate the transfer of information between neurons. The neurons form neuronal pools, which are functional groups of neurons that process and integrate incoming information that is received, then transmit this processed information to other destinations.

Storing and having the ability to recall processed information is what we refer to as memory. Memory is essential for learning and incorporating our experiences. Broadly speaking, there are two basic types of memory, short-term memory and long-term memory. Short-term memory is a passing memory of the events that continuously happen before us. These memories can last from a few seconds to a few hours. Long-term memory is information that is stored and can be recalled for days, months, or years.

When the brain is injured, impairments of varying degrees can happen. One of the most common deficits resulting from brain injury is an impairment of short-term memory. Damage to the hippocampus, which is involved in storing new experiences, can result in severe memory deficits. This, in turn, certainly inhibits one’s ability to learn. Outlined below are some suggestions for compensating for impaired short-term memory:

Provide a structured, consistent daily schedule for individuals with memory problems. Repetition and consistency reduce frustration and aid in learning.
Provide daily journals in which individuals may record their activities in order to assist in recall of these activities.
Provide a date book in order to keep up with past and upcoming events.
Provide an assistive watch that will sound an alarm when it is time for a certain activity to begin.
Post signs to help individuals remember the sequence of certain tasks or the location of often used items.
Use jingles or other mnemonic devices.
Practice, practice, practice. Repetition often helps transfer information from our short-term memories to our long-term memories. Relate new information to what the person already knows.
Impaired short-term memory complicates routine day to day activities and is a tremendous source of frustration. Utilizing these few compensatory devices will assist in making life predictable and manageable.

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