The DOI matches its Crossref record; 28 of the 28 references it cites were found in a registry or an index.
Generative Learning Processes of the Brain
Abstract
This article presents a functional model of learning from teaching that, in contrast to structural models of schemata and knowledge representation, focuses on the neural and cognitive processes that learners use to generate meaning and understanding from instruction. Wittrock's model of generative learning (Wittrock, 1974a, 1990) consists of four major processes: (a) attention, (b) motivation, (c) knowledge and preconceptions, and (d) generation. Each of these processes involves generative brain functions studied in neural research and generative cognitive functions studied in knowledge-acquisition research. In this model of generative learning, the brain is a model builder. It does not transform input into output. Instead, it actively controls the processes of generating meaning and plans of action that make sense of experience and that respond to perceived realities. Within this framework, teaching becomes the process of leading learners to use their generative processes to construct meanings and plans of action.
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“We conceptualize language as a situated, dialogic, and generative practice [63,68,69].”
From A Systematic Review of Generative AI in K–12: Mapping Goals, Activities, Roles, and Outcomes via the 3P Model (2025) · cites this paper as [63]
Citations
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Metadata
- Authors
- Wittrock, M. C.
- Affiliations
- University of California, Los Angeles (US)
- Corresponding author
- Wittrock, Merlin C.
- Venue
- Educational Psychologist
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Published
- 1992-09-01
- Volume
- 27
- Issue
- 4
- Pages
- 531-541
- ISSN
- 0046-1520 (ISSN-L)
- 1532-6985
- OpenAlex
- W1969049312
- Cited by
- 343
- References
- 28
- Citations by year
- 2026: 18 · 2025: 17 · 2024: 18 · 2023: 16 · 2022: 13 · 2021: 11 · 2020: 22 · 2019: 17 · 2018: 12 · 2017: 17 · 2016: 5 · 2015: 27 · 2014: 20 · 2013: 19 · 2012: 25
- FWCI
- 0.64
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- closed
- Locations
- Educational Psychologist (publishedVersion)
- Topics
- Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Cognitive Neuroscience › Neuroscience, Education and Cognitive Function
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Experimental and Cognitive Psychology › Visual and Cognitive Learning Processes
- Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Educational methodologies and cognitive development
- Keywords
- generative learning, learning from teaching, attention, motivation, meaning generation, knowledge acquisition, brain function, cognitive processes, instructional design
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