MentAbacus

Mentabacus is deeply rooted in established cognitive science principles:

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• Multi-Modal Encoding and Dual Coding Theory: The system leverages Paivio's Dual Coding Theory*, which posits that information encoded both verbally and visually is better remembered. By pairing abstract verbal content with visual-spatial anchors, Mentabacus engages separate subsystems of working memory (auditory-verbal and visuo-spatial), effectively doubling capacity and creating multiple retrieval cues. Modern cognitive psychology supports this dual-channel approach: Baddeley's model of Working Memory* (Baddeley, 1992) describes separate subsystems for auditory-verbal information and visuo-spatial information. If both subsystems are engaged, we effectively double working memory capacity for that content, since imagery and words are processed along distinct tracks that do not fully interfere.

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• Spatial Memory and Method of Loci: It capitalizes on the human brain's innate ability for spatial recall, drawing inspiration from the ancient Method of Loci (memory palace technique). By giving abstract knowledge a 'place' within a consistent 4x4x4 grid, it hooks new data onto stable, existing mental structures, making recall more intuitive and durable.

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• Embodied Cognition and Multi-Sensory Learning: Mentabacus incorporates principles of embodied cognition, recognizing that thinking is influenced by bodily interactions with the world. It encourages physical engagement (e.g., handling ATIs, moving through a physical grid), which activates sensory and motor memory, enhancing encoding and recall through the 'enactment effect' . This multi-sensory approach maximizes neural pathways linked to the knowledge.

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• Narrative Structure and Cognitive Load Theory: The method emphasizes narrative to provide context and meaning, aligning with research showing that information presented in story form is better understood and recalled . It also mitigates cognitive load by breaking down complex knowledge into manageable 'chunks' within a spatially organized grid, consistent with Sweller's Cognitive Load Theory*.

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• Strategic Slowness: Mentabacus intentionally slows down the encoding process, requiring deliberate mental effort to link concepts to spatial and narrative elements . This 'strategic slowness' enhances lasting encoding by keeping knowledge active in working memory during restructuring .

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In essence, Mentabacus combines these well-researched cognitive mechanisms into an integrated system that transforms abstract learning into a concrete, memorable, and physically engaged experience, making it particularly effective for structured knowledge domains and diverse learners.

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References*

 

Baddeley, A. (1992). Working memory. Psychological Science, 3(4), 177–186.
Paivio, A. (1971). Imagery and verbal processes. Holt, Rinehart and Winston.

Sweller, J. (1988). Cognitive load during problem solving: Effects on learning. Cognitive Science, 12(2), 257–285.