Strand 1: Implicit Learning and the Brain explores underlying neural processes and psychological principles associated with implicit learning in cognitive, linguistic, and social domains in varied settings over the human lifespan.

Strand 1's research on implicit learning encompasses both brain and behavior using techniques from neuroscience and developmental psychology. Strand 1 has carefully chosen a research agenda to complement the research and theory of Strands 2 & 3 by examining the abilities, constraints, biases, and mental filters that children bring to learning environments. These may be evolved biases that are relatively impervious to modification, or biases that are acquired early through culturally-specific practices and input. In either case, Strand 1's philosophy is that: (a) uncovering these filters will ultimately help to design better learning environments and tools, (b) fertilization from Strands 2 & 3 will help focus the research of Strand 1 to domains, questions, and problems that are of pressing concern to education, and (c) reciprocally, cognitive neuroscience and developmental studies will generate new hypotheses for Strands 2 & 3 to test in both informal and formal environments. Our 10-year vision is that LIFE will thus contribute to building a bridge that was once considered 'too far' (Bruer, 1997).

The Implicit Strand is composed of 7 senior research personnel and their research groups at the UW and Stanford. It is lead by the cross-university team of Patricia Kuhl (UW), Andrew Meltzoff (UW), and Byron Reeves (Stanford).