What it says. Information-processing theory models the mind like a system: it takes in information through the senses, holds a small amount in working memory while you think about it, and, with effort, stores it in long-term memory. Attention decides what gets in, working memory is limited, and durable learning means moving information into long-term memory through meaningful processing.

What it means for your teaching. Gain attention before you deliver something important. Do not pack a single class with more than students can process. Build in active processing, explaining, applying, and connecting to prior knowledge, because information that is only heard rarely sticks. Memory is built by use, not by exposure.