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Assessing the Multiple Dimensions of Engagement to Characterize Learning: A Neurophysiological Perspective
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An Ecological Approach to Conceptual Thinking in Material Engagement.

Nicolás Alessandroni1, Lambros Malafouris2, Shaun Gallagher3,4

  • 1Concordia Infant Research Laboratory, Concordia University, Montréal, Canada.

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|August 9, 2024
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Summary

Conceptual thinking is not just in the mind but an active engagement with the world. This perspective redefines conceptualization as embodied action and interaction with material culture.

Keywords:
conceptual thinkingecological-enactive cognitionmaterial culturematerial engagement theorythings

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Area of Science:

  • Cognitive Science
  • Philosophy of Mind
  • Embodied Cognition

Background:

  • Mainstream psychology views concepts as internal representations.
  • Post-cognitivist theories highlight brain-body-environment interactions.
  • The role of action and material culture in conceptualization is under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore conceptual thinking from a material engagement perspective.
  • To propose that conceptual thinking is an active process of engaging with materiality.
  • To define conceptual thinking within an ecological-enactive framework.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical exploration of conceptual thinking.
  • Adopting a material engagement perspective.
  • Introducing seven principles within an ecological-enactive framework.

Main Results:

  • Conceptual thinking is redefined as 'conceptual thinging'—an embodied, practical knowledge.
  • Conceptualization is not solely representational but enacted through interaction.
  • Conceptual thinking is instantiated in sociomaterial activities involving bodily practices and artifacts.

Conclusions:

  • Conceptual thinking is an active, embodied engagement with the material world.
  • This perspective challenges traditional representationalist views of cognition.
  • Emphasizing material engagement offers a richer understanding of conceptual processes.