"Brain-based education emphasizes
how the brain learns naturally and is based on what we currently know about the
actual structure and function of the human brain at varying developmental
stages." (Brainbaseoverview, Wilson). This helps teachers create lesson
plans that connect to students based on their lives and emotional experiences.
Research has shown that lecture is the least effective after 24 hours. When a
teacher presents the materials right after a lesson. Doing something
memorable. The brain based learning has been broken down into 12
principles. When a teacher understands the meaning of each principal than
he/she can apply certain teaching techniques for the student that will help him
retain/learn in the best way possible.
1. The brain is parallel a processor: This
is important with vision. Its how we see things in color, shape, motion
and depth. Giving students the access to computers and using a type of
learning program that is in 3D and interactive. They would be using their
eyes and following up with a worksheet immediately to make sure the lesson is
learned.
2. Learning engages the entire
physiology: Any type of stress can affect our brain
and how we learn. As we saw in the video of the school in Key Largo the
teacher used "brain based" exercises. This is a great way for
students to let off any stress. Recess is one way in schools today students can
let out their stress. Another idea for younger children is taking breaks during
the lesson and playing simon says. Making the brain is nourished with
food, is important for keeping the mind awake and the child not to become moody
or fatigue. Especially for the younger children. So incorporating a snack
time would be affective.
3. The search for meaning is Innate: "this
means we are naturally programmed to search for meaning". I think this is
why field trips play such an important role in our learning. The
principle explains how "The brain needs and automatically registers the
familiar while simultaneously searching for and responding to additional
stimuli". Not only have a classroom that is full of colors and textures
but linking indoor/outdoor places. If you're doing a lesson plan on animals and
habitats. Not only discussing this in the classroom but taking a field trip to
the zoo to really explain the meaning and see with their own eyes.
4. The search for meaning occurs through
patterning: Patterning refers to the organization and
categorization of information. The brain resists having meaningless patterns
imposed upon it. "Pattern making is pleasing (emotional content) for the
brain. The brain takes great pleasure in taking random and chaotic information
and ordering it. The implications for learning and instruction is that
presenting a learner with random and unordered information provides the maximum
opportunity for the brain to order this information and form meaningful
patterns that will be remembered, that will be learned. Setting up a learning
environment in this way mirrors real life that is often random and
chaotic".
5. Emotions are critical to patterning:Students learn and form patterns best in classrooms with a
favorable emotional climate. Having different corners in the classroom
where the student feels most comfortable. For example,setting up a cosy
library in my classroom for reading time. Providing stuffed animals and
beanbag chairs for the students to sit on.
6. The brain processes
parts and wholes simultaneously.
Presenting bits and pieces of information outside of their context is
ineffective. It's important to stimulate the left and right sides of the brain
because everyone can be different learning. Using flash cards for a
vocabulary lesson would be helpful. check out this video.
7. Learning involves
both focused attention and peripheral perception: Therefore, the entire classroom environment affects student
learning. I would make sure my classroom is fully decorated from the outside of
the door to the inside. Visually eye appealing bulletin boards that the
children can relate to,coinciding with lessons. Stations that they can have
research tools. Students can learn more effectively when
their attention is deepened and multiple layers of context are used to support
learning.
8. Learning always
involves both conscious and unconscious processes: All students can learn more
effectively when given time to reflect and acknowledge their own learning. I
would have a "reflection journal" where each student would write in
at the end of the day. This would not only practice their writing skills but
also give them the chance to remember what they learned during the day and if
they ever needed to go back and remember something about a lesson it is
there.
9. We
have at least two types of memory -- a spatial memory system and a set of
systems for rote learning: Meaning archiving isolated facts and skills or making sense of
experience. Students can learn more effectively when taught through
experiences that engage multiple ways to remember. Incorporating memorization
into a math lesson is a great way to help them remember. Collaborative math lesson.
10. The
brain understands and remembers best when facts and skills are embedded in
natural spatial memory: Learning
is developmental, and teaching should engage developmental shifts and steps. I
would do this by always using visuals like the Elmo tool. Students who have vision complications
really like this in the classroom.
Using real life “activity” in the classroom. Acting out a story using
drama.
11. Learning is enhanced by
challenge and inhibited by threat: All
students can learn more effectively in a supportive, empowering, and
challenging environment. Creating a relaxing environment. I really liked the idea of playing
classical music for a minute before a lesson to get the students in the mood.
12. Each brain is unique: Students
can learn more effectively when their unique individual talents, abilities, and
capacities are engaged. So recognizing each child's special need and talents
are key. I would do this in the beginning of the year through assessment.
Then have a wide variety of choices for each student. I think learning is all about giving a student
“choice”. Loosing their attention
span is going to create failure and interest in their minds.
http://youtu.be/Op_4u-vpRn0
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