Revisiting information processing

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.