Brain based learning
- 1. BRAIN BASED LEARNING BY DR.SHAZIA ZAMIR
- 2. Brain Based Learning Eric Jenson, a leading proponent of brain-based education, defines brain-based learning as "learning in accordance with the way the brain is naturally designed to learn" (Jensen, 2008). Brain based learning allows teachers to identity a particular theory that they can use to underlie their teachings in the classroom. Caine and Caine ( 1995) illustrated how to apply brain based learning to the process of learning and teaching. They focus on learning in a meaningful way as opposed to a more traditional approach of memorization of facts (Caine & Caine, 1995).
- 3. Cont…. According to Jensen's (2005) description, the brain will learn most optimally in the best environment, meaning the environment that allows students to understand the why's of what they are doing. The brain is constantly searching for meaning and if educators are able to show students the connection between what they are learning and the reason behind it, there is a greater chance of success.
- 4. Cont…. Brain based learning focuses on how the brain takes in information and emphasizes the different processes involved in learning. The focus on what each part of the brain does, allows students to connect to their learning and how they receive, perceive and act on their learning (Jensen, 2008).
- 5. Cont….. Brain based learning, according to Connell (2009), allows educators to modify their teaching methods to accommodate students' needs. Brain-based learning encourages educators to move beyond traditional teaching methodologies and re-conceptualize their teaching methods to ensure they are able to reach all students by focusing on meaningful learning (Caine & Caine, 1990).
- 6. Cont…. Brain Based Learning (BBL) explores the connection between the fields of neuroscience and education. Research into how the brain changes with learning and the effects of injuries on the brain has enabled a greater understanding and application of brain-based theories to education. The field of brain-based learning has allowed many disciplines to come together and to combine their efforts. These fields include neuroscience, neurology, medicine and psychology, as well as education (Connell, J.D., 2009).
- 7. 12 Principles of Brain Based Learning The inclusion of brain based learning theory allows students to understand not only how they learn but also why they learn. It allows educators to help students gain a greater understanding of strengths and weaknesses in regard to learning and also what to do about these. Educators must take into account when designing their instruction. The twelve steps of brain based learning, formulated by Caine and Caine (1995), allow educators to reach a more diverse set of learner, affirming the notion that not all students learn the same way and allowing educators to teach in a multitude of ways (Connell, 2009).
- 8. Brain Based Learning - 12 Principles By Caine and Caine 1994 P1. Learning involves the physiology of the body P2. The brain/mind is social P3. The search for meaning is innate P4. The search for meaning occurs through patterning. P 5. Emotions are critical to pattering P6. The brain/mind processes parts and wholes simultaneously. P7. Learning involves both focused attention and peripheral perception. P8. Learning is both conscious and unconscious, P9.There are at least two approaches to memory. A spatial memory system and a system for rote learning P10. Learning is developmental. P11. Complex learning is enhanced by challenge and inhibited by threat associated with helplessness and/or fatigue P12. Each brain is uniquely organized.
- 9. How can you apply the brain based theories to an educational setting? Teachers must make use of the classroom space to arouse all senses. ... Brain-based learning helps students relax in order to improve alertness. ... Stimulate social skills to improve the experience. ... Make study challenging. Set up a learning folder for each child. ---------------------------
- 10. References Caine, R.N., & Caine, G. (1995). Reinventing schools through brain-based learning. Educational Leadership, 43-47. Caine, R.N., Caine, G., McClintic, C., & Klimek, K. (2009). 12 Brain/Mind Learning Principles In Action: Developing Executive Function of the Human. (2"d ed). California: Corwin Press. Connell, J. D. (2009). The Global Aspects of Brain-Based Learning. Educational Horizons, 88(1), 28-39. Jensen, E. (2005). Teaching with the brain in mind (2"d ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD. Jensen, E. (2008). Brain-based learning (2nd ed.). California: Corwin Press.