Caine and Caine conclude that "Optimizing the use of the human brain means using the brain’s infinite capacity to make connections–and understanding what conditions maximize this process." They identify three interactive and mutually supportive elements that should be present in order for complex learning to occur: "relaxed alertness," "orchestrated immersion," and "active processing."

1. An optimal state of mind that we call relaxed alertness, consisting of low threat and high challenge.
2. The orchestrated immersion of the learner in multiple, complex, authentic experience.
3. The regular, active processing of experience as the basis for making meaning.