Learning and Memory

The question as to whether it is possible to learn without remembering depends not only on the definition of learning, but also on the type of memory. If learning is defined as acquiring permanent changes in thinking and behavior, then I believe that in order to learn, one must retain in some form the facts, skills or beliefs that make up learning. Such information must be stored somewhere as long-term memory. However, information that is stored somewhere in the long-term memory does not necessarily constitute learned behavior.

As previously defined, learning is permanent changes in behavior. But what if someone learns something and then forgets what he or she has learned? Does this imply that the forgotten information is no longer stored in the long-term memory? I do not think so. I believe that forgetting is the impaired ability to access the acquired information.

Many years ago, I learned how to speak Spanish. Recently, I have met a Spanish speaking friend. Last Spring, she asked me about the weather outside. I tried to tell her that it is pleasant as long as you wear long sleeves, but I could not remember how to say “sleeves” in Spanish. So, I ran my finger up and down my arm, and she said “mangas”, which means sleeves in Spanish. Then I remembered that I had once learned how to say “long sleeves” (mangas largas) in Spanish. It was my inability to remember how to say “sleeves” in Spanish that prevented me from behaving or saying what I wanted to say even though I had learned how to say “long sleeves” (mangas largas) before.

I believe that learning something, and then forgetting it, and then relearning it makes the learned behavior stronger. I don’t think I will ever forget how to say “long sleeves” (mangas largas) again.