A Brain-Based Lens into the Technological Learning Black Box

Despite decades of research, what differentiates companies in terms of technological learning remains unclear. This study explores this gap by drawing analogies between the brain’s learning mechanism and style, and technological learning mechanism and processes. This investigation led to finding pair analogies among six brain’s learning styles with six technological learning processes, including: kinesthetic learning with learning by doing, haptic learning with learning by using, visual learning with learning by searching, interactive learning with learning by interacting, auditory learning with learning from spillovers, and print learning with learning from advances in science and technology. A key contribution is the introduction of a new technological learning process, entitled “intuitive and experiential learning”, inspired by the brain’s olfactory learning. The research also identifies gaps in current technological learning mechanism and proposes systems to address them, modeled on brain functions. One proposed system, mirroring the brain’s sensory integration, helps firms integrate information from different learning processes. Another, akin to the proprioception system, monitors internal operations, optimizes interdepartmental connections, and ensures continuous awareness and adaptation. Finally, a system based on the brain’s vestibular function is suggested to manage the CEO’s strategic positioning and communication with departments, align the firm and its units with external environments, and guide learning projects with real-time feedback. Keywords