Final answer:
To gain students' attention using Information Processing theory, it is essential to understand how the brain focuses cognitive powers in response to new stimuli and to utilize techniques such as elaborative rehearsal, the self-reference effect, and distributed practice. Additionally, chunking, priming, and active learning strategies can help maintain attention and support cognitive processing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Information Processing and Attention
The Information Processing theory suggests ways to gain students' attention, which is crucial for learning and cognitive development. To maintain attention, the sensory information and cognitive processing play significant roles. Hormones can influence the brain state and lead to arousal that focuses the cognitive capacities on new information, which is the primary mechanism of attention. Factors like hunger, fatigue, or perceived threats shift cognitive priorities, and the fight-or-flight response can engage attention in response to threatening stimuli.
Techniques for Attention Engagement
Selective Attention Test and related exercises demonstrate how attention can be captured and maintained through novel and complex tasks. To design systems that support attention, one must consider the task's complexity and relevance to the user. Additionally, the use of memory techniques such as elaborative rehearsal, self-reference effect, distributed practice, and rehearsal help in retaining attention by encoding information more effectively.
Chunking, priming, and active learning strategies can provide an innovative approach by breaking information into smaller, manageable segments (chunking), preparing the brain to receive new information through exposure to related concepts (priming), and encouraging engagement and participation (active learning).