Revisiting information processing

Alex Johnstone's model of information processing

How recent research gives us a greater insight into the learning process

The model of information processing in science proposed by Alex Johnstone in 1997 has frequently been used as a basis for discussing the effectiveness of different methods of teaching. According to the model, successful learning requires an efficient perception filter to select relevant information, a working memory for processing information, and a long-term memory for storing and for concept development. Helen St. Clair-Thompson, Tina Overton and Chris Botton of Hull University have revisited the model1 and looked at how recent research has helped us to have a greater insight into the learning process.

Thanks for using Education in Chemistry. You can view one Education in Chemistry article per month as a visitor. 

A photograph of a teacher standing in a white lab coat, speaking with a class of children in a laboratory, is superimposed on a colourful background. Text reads "Teach Chemistry means support for classroom and staff room".

Register for Teach Chemistry for free, unlimited access

Registration is open to all teachers and technicians at secondary schools, colleges and teacher training institutions in the UK and Ireland.

Get all this, plus much more:

  • unlimited access to resources, core practical videos and Education in Chemistry articles
  • teacher well-being toolkit, personal development resources and online assessments
  • applications for funding to support your lessons

Already a Teach Chemistry member? Sign in now.

Not eligible for Teach Chemistry? Sign up for a personal account instead, or you can also access all our resources with Royal Society of Chemistry membership.