When we talk about bottom-up and top-down processing in learning, we’re looking at two different ways we understand new information.

Bottom-Up Processing:

• This starts with the basics.
• You collect details first, like facts or things you see and hear.
• Then, you build up to see the bigger picture, which often helps you understand better.
• For example: When you learn a new language, you start by picking up words and grammar rules before you can have conversations.

Top-Down Processing:

• This begins with the big picture or what you already know.
• You use context and your expectations to make sense of new information.
• Sometimes, you might jump to conclusions based on what you already understand.
• For example: When you read a sentence with missing letters, you still get it because you know what it’s about.

Both of these styles are really important for processing information and remembering things. They work together to help us learn better!