Teaching the Human Brain - Research Paper Example

There are twelve facts of brain-based learning which when considered in education can reconceptualize teaching methods – 1) brain is a parallel processor which means brain can perform various functions like thoughts, emotions and imaginations simultaneously, 2) learning engages the entire physiology which means learning can be enhanced by proper development of both body and brain, 3) the search for meaning is innate which indicates that brain automatically registers the familiar and searches for the meaning, 4) search occurs through patterning, 5) learning is influenced by emotions, 6) brain simultaneously created parts and wholes which means the two hemispheres of the brain are interactive, 7) learning involves both attention and peripheral perception, 8) learning involves conscious and unconscious processes, 9) two kinds of memory exist like spatial memory system and a system for rote learning, 10) brain remembers best when information is stored in natural spatial memory, 11) challenges enhances learning while threat inhibits learning, and 12) each brain although has same set of systems nevertheless has different learning capacities (Caine, 1990, pp.66-69; Lackney, n.d., pp.4-5)

2.2    Brain-based earning evolution

         Human brains are made of   l age number of independent networks. Information received by the brain passed through these networks. Any information that is already stored influences the volume and pattern of learning. According to educator Robert Sylwester “the human brain is the best organized, most functional three pounds of matter in the known universe.” (Weiss, 2002, p.28) All human brains are different from each other. Every nerve cell or neuron acts as the communicator of signals. Neurons receive signals from other cells. Neurons also manage the signals and then pass them on to other cells across tiny gaps called synapses. The signals move from one neuron to the other with the help of chemicals called neurotransmitters. All human behaviors are conducted by this electrochemical process. Whenever we perform any activity like speaking, moving or thinking, electrical and chemical communications occur between a vast number of neurons. When a nerve cell rejuvenates with new information or by getting exposed to information that is passed on by the senses, it grows branches called dendrites. Nerve cells receive information primarily with the help of dendrites. Information from 20,000 nerve cells can be received by a single nerve cell (Weiss, 2002, p.29).