making.cognitive.connections
Cognitive Connections
Below are several examples of the types of cognitive skills used when learning to use a new smart device or application. These skills are the "cognitive connections" that are made for you throughout the various books and video trainings included in ID 4 the Web's Making Cognitive Connections series. By being made conscious of the skill being used, then applying it not only to the smart device but to everyday life examples, the cognitive skill is reinforced and the specific learned task becomes easier to remember.
Attention to Detail
Definition
Paying attention to all parts of a task, no matter how small
PDA Examples
Find the GPS button; put the stylus back into its storage location
Life Examples
Check your writing for typographical errors; find spots on laundry to spray before washing; put your keys back into their storage location
Memory
Definition
Storing and recalling information, events or procedures
PDA Examples
Remember the steps necessary to record an appointment
Life Examples
Remember the steps necessary to change a vacuum cleaner filter; remember how to retrieve messages from your answering machine
Visual Memory
Definition
Storing and retrieving from memory a previously seen image
PDA Examples
Identify the Contacts button
Life Examples
Identify the face of your doctor or the corner where you need to turn to go to her office
Sequencing
Definition
Performing the steps of a task in logical order
PDA Examples
Follow the correct steps to record and appointment
Life Examples
Decide which bills to pay first; figure out the most efficient order for running errands
Categorization
Definition
Grouping objects or ideas together according to common features
PDA Examples
Identify an appointment with the optometrist as appropriate for the medical category
Life Examples
Sort the laundry into piles for each family member or into darks and lights; sort the mail into bills, junk mail, things to read later, etc.
Following Directions
Definition
Complete all steps of written or spoken instructions
PDA Examples
Follow the instructions in Chapter 7 to edit a recurring appointment whose location has been changed for one time only
Life Examples
Follow the instructions to assemble a crib; follow a recipe to bake a pie
Time Management
Definition
Planning and monitoring your schedule to ensure prioritized tasks are completed
PDA Examples
Determine how much lead time to allow in setting a reminder alarm
Life Examples
Determine how long it will take you to take a shower and get dressed so you can leave the house on time; determine how long various dishes need to cook so they will be ready to serve simultaneously