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Brain compatible learning isn't really new. Many of the the techniques described as being brain compatible have been used by teachers just like you for decades. What's interesting about this whole "Brain Based Learning" movement is what we are now learning as fact about the brain and how it learns. With the advent and increased use of the PET (Positron Emission Tomography, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), NMRI (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imagery) and other technologies, neuroscience is uncovering mysteries about the brain that have existed since the beginning of time. One top scientist concludes that, "Anything you learned two years ago is already old information"(Jeri Janowski). Teachers should remember that we don't have a, "...coherent model of how the brain works, but we do know enough to make significant changes in how we teach" (Jenson, 1998). We have learned that the child's environment plays a significant role in their readiness to learn. While we may not be able to change their home envitonment, we can provide a safe, nurturing, brain-compatible environment while they are with us at school. Stress is another area that we can influence, both negatively or positively. We can't make sound decisions about the way teach if we aren't informed. I am providing you with a list of books, many that I have read, and some have been the source of book study groups. I am also publishing links to popular Brain Based Learning web sites. This is one of my favorite topics. Have fun exploring
MEMORY
Much of what we are learning about the brain is connected to memory. We have multiple memory systems in our brain and strong emotions, when attached, make things easier to remember. Our semantic memory has limited storage capacity and can be difficult to retrieve. It also requires frequent rehearsal. Episodic memory calls upon prior knowledge and has unlimited storage space. It is location driven meaning that if people receive information in a specific location, they will more easily remember it in that same location. Procedural memory is often referred to as muscle memory and deals with the processes that the body does and remembers. The storage of procedural memory allows humans the ability to do two things at once and might include the information necessary for us to ride a bike or skip rope. Automatic memory, or conditioned response memory has been identified only recently. Your automatic memory may cause other memory lanes to open and stores such information as the alphabet or multiplication tables. Emotional memory takes precedence over any other kind of memory. Any memory tied to a strong emotional event will be given priority by the brain. Emotional memory may be triggered by another memory lane. These 5 memory lanes are used to access and store information for long term memory.
Resource: Learning and Memory, The Brain in Action, Marilee Sprenger, 1999.
Brain Compatible Learning Environments
Recent study has reinforced the importance of a brain compatible classroom. Successful learning environments include three key components:
1.Relaxed Alertness-High challenge, low threat.
2.Active Processing-Hands on, multisensory, continual reorganization of information.
3.Orchestrated Immersion-complex true-to-life learning.
Teachers can use techniques such as choice, feedback, role playing, graphic organizers, cooperative learning, journals and a host of other activities to create effective and inviting learning environments. Parents are encouraged to remember that the brain is sensitive to its early environment.
Resource: The Handy-Dandy Quick Reference Guide, Vicki Vanderheyden, 2001.
Links to Brain Based Web Sites
Brain Connection
Brain Based Learning
BrainBasedLearning(again)
Funderstanding
Truth or Deception
North's Page
Brain Compatible ClassroomsTeacher TipsTools For TeachersITI ModelColor MattersSelected ResourcesRecommended Reading
Brain.org
Compatible
Available Videos
Insights
Community Learning Center
Teacher Development Network
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