Learning and Memory in Modern Cognitive Psychology and Integrative Biology

This introductory chapter outlines the influence in educational theories and practices of models of human memory developed within cognitive psychology and the relative lack of influence of models drawn from integrative biology. The chapter argues for the value to education of contributions from emerging studies in integrative biology, in particular though a focus on environmental interaction and information processing. The chapter suggests that systemic or generalised views of learning and memory offer some resolution to conflicting views on conceptualisations of learning and memory, with subsequent benefits for education.