what is shallow processing

E Authors

2 min read

·

13-10-2024

91

0

Share

Shallow Processing: When We Skim the Surface of Information

Have you ever read an article and felt like you retained nothing? You might have fallen victim to shallow processing, a cognitive phenomenon where information is processed superficially, leading to poor understanding and retention. This article will explore the concept of shallow processing, how it impacts our learning and memory, and provide practical tips for navigating this cognitive hurdle.

What is Shallow Processing?

In simple terms, shallow processing is the least deep level of processing information. It involves focusing on superficial aspects of the information, such as its physical appearance or its sound. This stands in contrast to deep processing, which engages with the meaning and underlying structure of the information, leading to better comprehension and retention.

The Craik and Lockhart Levels of Processing Model

The levels of processing model, proposed by Fergus Craik and Robert Lockhart in 1972, provides a framework for understanding how different levels of processing influence memory. This model suggests that information processed at a deeper level is more likely to be remembered than information processed at a shallower level.

• Shallow Processing: This level focuses on the physical characteristics of information. For example, reading a word and focusing on its font size or its color falls under shallow processing.
• Intermediate Processing: This level involves phonological analysis of the information, such as understanding the sounds of the words.
• Deep Processing: This level involves semantic analysis of the information, considering its meaning and how it relates to existing knowledge. For example, understanding the meaning of a sentence and connecting it to previous experiences or knowledge.

Examples of Shallow Processing:

• Reading a textbook without actively engaging with the content: Simply skimming the pages or highlighting random sentences without understanding the context.
• Listening to music without paying attention to the lyrics: Just enjoying the melody or rhythm without engaging with the meaning of the song.
• Watching a movie without considering the plot or themes: Just enjoying the visuals or the action sequences.

Impact of Shallow Processing:

• Poor Memory: Shallow processing leads to weak memories that are easily forgotten. This is because the information is not encoded deeply enough to form a strong connection in the brain.
• Lower Comprehension: Understanding the meaning and context of information is difficult when we are engaged in shallow processing.
• Limited Learning: We struggle to apply newly acquired knowledge to different situations or solve complex problems when our understanding is based on shallow processing.

How to Avoid Shallow Processing:

• Active Engagement: Actively engage with the information, ask questions, and try to relate it to your existing knowledge.
• Meaningful Connections: Look for the underlying meaning of the information and try to connect it to your own experiences or interests.
• Summarization: Summarize the key points in your own words to check for understanding.
• Elaboration: Elaborate on the information by adding examples, explanations, or personal reflections.
• Spaced Repetition: Review the information at spaced intervals to reinforce memory and deepen understanding.

Conclusion:

Shallow processing, while a natural cognitive process, can hinder our learning and memory. By understanding the levels of processing model and implementing strategies to engage in deeper processing, we can improve our comprehension, retention, and overall learning experience. Remember, deep understanding requires effort and active engagement with the information.

Sources:

• Craik, F. I. M., & Lockhart, R. S. (1972). Levels of processing: A framework for memory research. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 11(6), 671-684. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0022537172900410