Learning and the Brain

As educators we hear about the 21st Century teaching and learning.  This topic encompasses the various learning styles, teaching to the various learning styles, as well as the incorporation of technology.  Monika Mácajová discusses the theory of brain compatible learning.  Theory of brain compatible learning is based on inseparability of external environment and brain activity (Mácajová, 2013).  In other words, making a connection between the environment of a learner and its influence on brain activity.  Mácajová identifies the concept that is having knowledge that people use their brains all the time while doing anything and that is the reason why it is necessary to know everything about its functioning (2013).  Its the application of what science has already determined and will learn about the brain to influence how to teach and learn.  

Mácajová challenges the reader to think about how schools influence the brain through 5 issues (2013):

1. Curriculum (what we teach)
2. Instruction (how we teach it),
3. Environment (where we teach it),
4. Assessment (how we measure what we teach),
5. Staff development (the change processes).

Acknowledging these areas and becoming more intentional will these issues can greatly affect the approach to learning and teaching in the 21st century.  Understanding how the brain works will allow educators the opportunity to make the greatest impact on learning. Neuropedagogy is a new interdisciplinary field focused on mechanisms of learning and teaching while considering brain functions and aims to improve pedagogy by using the knowledge of neurology(Mácajová, 2013).   Some educators already see themselves as mini-psychologist so understanding not only the child but how the actual brain works would be beneficial at selecting appropriate curriculum, instruction, environment, assessment and staff development.

Brain compatible learning is learning that is in agreement with brain’s natural function, which is the need to learn (Mácajová, 2013).  It’s almost like being able to teach someone while being in their brain.  Mácajová quotes E. Jensen’s explanation of brain compatible learning using the abbreviation ESP (2013):

1. E- the active ENGAGEMENT
2. S- of purposeful STRATEGIES
3. P- based on PRINCIPLES derived from neuroscience.

Using neuroscience to create engaging activities and learning environments is basically the focus of Brain Compatible Learning.  I liked this article because it discussed the brain and how it works.  It also stressed the importance of theory and tied it into the typical school/classroom.  Educators need to get back to theories and principles to effectively teach to ALL students in a way that is best for their students.

Resource:

Mácajová, M (2013). Neuropedagogy and Brain Compatible Learning- Ideas for Education in the 21st Century. Technologia Vzdelavania. 21.3: 1-9.  

Problem Solving

I have always had difficulty problem solving.  Maybe it’s because I never really learned a technique or method that works for me.  Maybe because of that, I never gained confidence when solving problems and making decisions.  The author of the site gives me hope that problem solving and decision making are skills that can be improved upon, studied, and mastered (“Problem Solving,” n.d.).  Whenever I hear “problem solving” I automatically think of “critical thinking”.  I become anxious with both because I do not view myself as a “critical thinker”.  The author of the site applies a metaphor when referring to the relationship between the two: If problem solving is the car that gets your business to its goal, critical thinking skills are the gas (“Problem Solving,” n.d.).  My anxious feeling is still present because in this metaphor I would not have gas nor a car.  There are 5 steps of the critical thinking process that are listed on the site (“Problem Solving,” n.d.):

1. Identification- Identify and define the problem
2. Solution- Design a potential solution
3. Exploration- Formulate a potential action plan that results in the chosen solution
4. Action- Take necessary steps to complete the action plan
5. Reevaluation- Consider the action plan and whether it solved the original problem

With it laid out in this manner, it is comparable to the Scientific Method of which I am familiar.  Even with the knowledge of problem solving and critical thinking, my downfall has always been the approach.  What do I do first?  How do I navigate through the problem solving process?  The author of the site lists 6 methods and techniques for problem solving and decision making.  The Method I will address is one that is more aligned with the education field because I would like to be able to translate this information to my students.  The 6 Step Problem Solving Method, also known as the Creative Problem Solving (CPS) Method, is organized into three key phases of problem solving: Exploring the Challenge, Generating Idea, and Preparing for Action (“Problem Solving,” n.d.).  When approaching a problem, one must first know what the problem is, then come up with ideas or possible solution, and finally come up with an action plan as to how to solve the problem.  The 6 steps includes (“Problem Solving,” n.d.):

1. Define the Problem
2. Determine the Root Cause of the Problem
3. Develop Alternative Solutions
4. Select a Solution
5. Implement the Solution
6. Evaluate the Outcome

Brainstorming ideas is a core feature in this model (“Problem Solving,” n.d.).  This model is great for teaching students how to problem solve in a group setting to elicit more ideas and various viewpoints.  Collaboration is key.  After reading this article and focusing on this method, I realized that I never really had the opportunity to learn the concept of problem solving.  On the other hand, I may have learned it but did not find it meaningful at the time.  Educators should stress the importance and meaningfulness of problem solving beyond the classroom.  One approach would be to provide opportunities for students to problem solve outside of just math and science.

Resource:
Problem Solving. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.discoverbusiness.us/problem-solving/.

I.D. Resources

An instructional design professional is one who seeks a marriage between learning and technology.  It is a thoughtful profession that understands the relevance of learning and seeks to effectively engage learners to begin to think critically and build on prior knowledge to obtain and understand new knowledge.  Here are some resources that will give information about what instruction design is, as well as some helpful tips and resources to become a more effective instructional design professional:

IDD Blog
This blog is a blog for DePaul University in which contributors collaborate providing information that will be beneficial towards enhancing learning through technology.  This blog has been named one of the 50 must-read IT blogs in higher education by EdTech Magazine.  Some of the posts involve current issues surrounding Instructional Design & Technology.  Other posts provide useful strategies for effectively implementing technology in the learning environment.  I spent some time reading through most of the blogs that took the time explaining what I.T. is and what it is not by pinpointing misconceptions and clarifying the intent of fusing technology and learning.  I love the variety of information provided in this blog.  This blog is a conglomerate of other professionals and their viewpoints about the instructional design profession.

Flirting w/ eLearning
I love this blog solely because it simplifies the field of Instructional Design and provides tips and strategies of how to navigate through the field.  Nicole Legaut's expertise in the field of Instructional Design is how she creates training solutions that will help others in the field of ID.  Information provided varies from task analysis to suggestions and tutorials for technology that will enhance student learning.  Alot of the information provided comes from Nicole's experience and are just some useful tips she learned that will enhance a career in ID.  The posts are easy reads and are relatable if you want to implement new technology or become a better professional in the field of IT.

Dr. Ray Pastore's Instructional Technology Blog
This blog has a plethora of information regarding Instructional Design.  Dr. Ray Pastore has used all his extensive Instructional Design expertise to provide numerous information regarding the field of Instructional Design.  This blog is extremely professional and is linked on Dr. Pastore's website.  Other resources are provided for professionals in the field of Instructional Design.  The variety of posts are wonderful because it helps to broaden the field and provides enlightenment on new ideas or even strategies to implement the concepts of instructional design and technology.