A method for learning connections between nonlinear oscillators in a neural network comprising the steps of providing a plurality of nonlinear oscillators, with each respective oscillator producing an oscillation distinct from the others in response to an input and detecting an input at an at least first oscillator of the plurality of nonlinear oscillators. Detecting an input at an at least a second oscillator of the plurality of nonlinear oscillators, comparing the oscillation of the at least first oscillator to the oscillation of the at least second oscillator at a point in time, and determining whether there is coherency between the oscillation of the at least first oscillator and the oscillation of the at least second oscillator. Changing at least one of the amplitude and phase of a connection between the at least first oscillator and the at least second least oscillator as a function coherency between the at least first oscillator and the oscillation of the at least second oscillator.