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.