What is the term for the process of converting sensory input into a form that the brain can use?

The term for the process of converting sensory input into a form that the brain can use is known as encoding. This is a fundamental step in the cognitive process where information from our sensory organs (like sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell) is transformed into a format that can be processed and understood by the brain. Encoding is essential for memory formation and influences how information is later stored and retrieved. It involves various forms of processing, such as visual encoding, acoustic encoding, and semantic encoding, allowing individuals to recognize and interpret the sensory information they encounter in their environment. This foundational concept is critical to understand how learning and memory work in psychology and educational contexts.