Brain-Based Learning: Understanding How Students Learn

According to the Glossary of Education Reform, Brain-based learning refers to “teaching methods, lesson designs, and school programs that are based on the latest scientific research about how the brain learns, including such factors as cognitive development—how students learn differently as they age, grow, and mature socially, emotionally, and cognitively.” 

Edutopia’s publication, “Six Tips for Brain-Based Learning” gives educators a place to start understanding brain-based teaching and learning in classrooms. When educators understand how the brain works, they are better prepared to assist students with learning in the classroom. Brain-based learning, which is based on knowledge of neurology, psychology, and technology, promises to help students “with everything from focusing attention to increasing retention.” An educator with an understanding of this information can engage learners and create deeper learning opportunities in the classroom. 

Many teachers know - and are using - brain-based learning even if they don’t realize it. When using activating strategies to stimulate prior knowledge, they are strengthening connections in the brain. Tools such as graphic organizers, songs, and rhymes, which appeal to different learning styles, also fall into the category of brain-based learning.

The “six tips” that Edutopia offers are provided to give teachers a jumping off point for utilizing brain-based learning in the classroom.

• Tip #1 - Create a Safe Climate for Learning - Making a classroom environment warm and inviting allows a child to feel safe and may relieve anxiety. This type climate encourages social and emotional learning. 
• Tip #2 - Encourage a Growth Mind-Set - Many liken the brain to a muscle that gets stronger with use. The act of ongoing learning can build brainpower. A growth mind-set means that knowledge, or IQ, isn’t set at a young age, but can be developed. Understanding this can motivate and encourage students. 
• Tip #3 - Emphasize Feedback - The use of a variety of formative assessments helps to keep student learning on track. Many consider ongoing, consistent feedback to be essential to brain-based learning.
• Tip #4 - Get Bodies and Brains in Gear - ”Exercise boosts brainpower. Cardio activity increases oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain and increases students’ ability to concentrate.”
• Tip #5 - Start Early - Early childhood education gets a student's brain active at a younger age, thus making them more ready to learn by the time they enter kindergarten. 
• Tip #6 - Embrace the Power of Novelty - “Surprise and novelty are the attention-grabbers. In the classroom, this means that changing routines, asking students to consider similarities and differences, field trips, and guest visitors all help to keep learning fresh.”

Brain-based learning isn’t a new concept, but it does help us understand how students learn. If we better understand how students learn, we can teach in a way that will help them gain new knowledge and understanding.
Our wide variety of Pepper course offerings give plenty of opportunity for teachers to apply brain-based learning concepts to their classrooms. Check out our Pepper Courses today!
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