How We Learn With Both Brains - Research Paper Example

How we learn with both Brains The brain has two separate sides, also referred to as the brain hemispheres (Alice, . There is the right and the left brain hemispheres. The two sides of the brain processes information differently. The dominant side is the one tasked with information processing in an individual. However, for better learning and understanding, both sides of the brain should be involved in well balanced proportions. This means that for effective thinking and learning, the less dominant side of the brain should be empowered to act at the same level as that of the dominant side (Tatar and Dikici, 2009).

The left side of the brain processes information linearly, by taking pieces and bits of information, arranging them sequentially and logically and then concluding on the whole information so formed. The left side of the brain handle details, and is thus vital to enable students understand detailed information and subjects. On the other hand, the right side of the brain does not organize the information it perceives. It focuses on the greater picture and it starts illogically from the answer to the question, that is, what is seen to what is not seen (Cherry, 1996).

Therefore to learn and understand, both sides of the brain should be applied concurrently. The right side to focus on the bigger picture of the subject being taught and the left side to consider the details, organize them logically and enhance proper and easier absorption of the subject contents. To enhance understanding, an overview of the topic should be given first for the right side to create a mental picture of what is to be learnt. Then the detailed teaching of the subject follows, allowing the left side to organize the information obtained, interpret it and conclude, creating the desired understanding (Brynie, 2009).

Since the right side of the brain is color sensitive, demonstration using colored charts, diagrams and figures will enhance a better understanding of the topic, when combined with detailed theory of the topic. There are various aspects of performance that are undertaken by a specific section of the brain. The left and the right brain functionality are ideally different. The right side of the brain handles information randomly. It lacks the art of sequencing in its focus. Therefore, supplementing the random nature of the right brain, with the sequential nature of the left brain guarantees positive learning and understanding of the topic (Brynie, 2009).

Being creative means how we perceive and think of the world and its issue. People who are creative use the right brain more than the left brain. The right brain wants to see, feel and touch object to understand them. The left brain wants to handle information piece by piece and step by step. This enables an individual to follow instructions, for example, in solving a mathematics problem. The left brain is applied in the following functions: It is characteristic of observing patterns, applying logic, comprehending and utilizing words and language.

It is based on facts, logic and reality, while knowing, acknowledging and identifying objects by names (Tatar and Dikici, 2009). The left brain is more practical based as compared to the right brain. It understands mathematics better. The functionality of the right brain is however different. The right brain is better placed to observe big pictures, indentify images and objects as opposed to words and languages, and use feelings and imaginations. The right brain highly deals with the present and the future, fantasizes, gets meaning, believes and appreciates.

It knows the functions of objects and is better placed to understand philosophy and religion. Therefore, to create a better understanding of all subjects, both mathematical/arithmetical and those which are theoretical, calls for the combination of both sides of the brain (Cherry, 1996). The left side of the brain deals with finer details of information. Therefore, it is responsible for observing spelling, grammar and punctuations (Brynie, 2009). The right side of the brain on the other side is more concerned with the lucidity and meaning of the information.

Therefore for effective learning, both the left and the right side of the brain should be combined so as to create meaning and rationality of information, in a grammatical manner, free from spelling and punctuation mistakes. The left side of the brain enables good expression in language and words. The right side enhances demonstrations in diagrams and figures. Therefore, to create a better understanding of the learning content, the theoretical information should be reinforced by the use of diagrams, tables, charts and figures in order to ensure full digestion of the subject or the topic content (Tatar and Dikici, 2009).

For the right brained individuals, they will not remember something unless it is written down, since they depend more on visually placed information, which is likely to form a certain mental picture. No wonder therefore that to enhance learning and understanding, both the sides of brain should be involved in a balanced manner (Alice, 2012). References Alice, P., (2012).Brain Injuries in Childhood Have Lasting Effects on Learning. Retrieved from http://healthland.time.com/2012/01/23/study-brain-injuries-in childhood-have- lasting-effects-on-learning.

Brynie, F. (2009). Brain Sense: The Science of the Senses and How We Process the World around Us. Saranac Lake, NY: AMACOM Books. Cherry, K. (1996). Left Brain vs Right Brain. Retrieved from http://psychology.about.com/odcognitivepsychology/a/left-brain-right-brain.htm Tatar, E., &Dikici, R., (2009). The Effects of the 4MAT method (learning styles and brain hemispheres) of instruction on achievement in mathematics. International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology.