Preparation
This stage prepares the brains for possible learning connections.  A teacher may encourage this with a discussion about what the students already know about a particular topic, and ask about what they would like to learn about the topic at hand.

Acquisition
During this phase opportunities are provided for the brain to absorb the new information. During this stage the brain actually creates connections between prior knowledge and the new information.

Elaboration
During elaboration, the students work with the information and concepts to reinforce the connections, and to correct misinformation.

Memory Formation
During this stage, the brain works behind the scenes, pulling unconscious information from the context of the learning, the emotions involved, and the physical state of the learner at the time.  Memory formation also occurs during rest and sleeping times of the learner.

Functional Integration
This stage is where the learner actually applies the new inforamtion to a new situation, such as someone who has learned to fix appliances is presented with a broken stove to fix, and they must apply the skills in a new context.