Skip to main content

Home/ 6329 brain-based learning/ Group items tagged brain

Rss Feed Group items tagged

Lauren Simpson

The Simple Things I Do To Promote Brain-Based Learning In My Classroom - 8 views

  • The Simple Things I Do To Promote Brain-Based Learning In My Classroom
    • Lauren Simpson
       
      It's important for teachers to help students understand how their brains work and give them strategies to be successful in the classroom. Our job as educators is not only to teach them the subject matter, but to prepare them for life. If they have these strategies I think we are giving students a leg up in being successful no matter what they face.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      I like that she takes initiative to promote brain based learning. Teaching and preparing students for life is very important, because the world is quickly changing in terms of technological advances. Students can easily learn the content using such principles. More teachers need to incorporates these rules in their instruction.
  • Explaining how the brain works is especially important for students who believe that they are “not smart” and that nothing they do can change that. Many children, and even some parents and teachers, think that intelligence is determined at birth and that even intense effort will not budge their academic abilities. The realization that they can literally change their brains by improving how they approach learning and how they study is liberating.
    • Lauren Simpson
       
      This is so true. I often tell my students who say they are not smart, I correct them and say "yet..you are not smart yet" I am one of those teachers that truly feel every students is smart and a budding genius.
  • Students know that the more they practice a basketball shot or rehearse a ballet performance, the more their skills improve. In my class, they learn that brains respond the same way. When a learner goes over multiplication facts or rereads confusing parts of a book, the brain gets better at processing this information because, with such repetition, more neurons grow and connect to other neurons, and neurons get more efficient at sending one another signals.
    • Lauren Simpson
       
      Being able to relate practicing what is learned in school with something a student already likes is vital. It provides a clear picture of what you are trying to teach them about repetition and how your brain needs it to be successful.
  •  
    One of the things I love about Brain-Based Learning is that it creates a paradigm shift about learners and learning. I suppose that my background in Special Education makes me appreciate it even more. All students CAN learn. The trick is to find out how they learn best. Techniques are explored and used to maximize learning. "The realization that they can literally change their brains by improving how they approach learning and how they study is liberating." This has been the focus of most of my training as a teacher and Brain-Based Learning shows you how. I appreciate that one of the things that this article stipulates is that the learner should be aware of how the brain works. It empowers a student to take charge of their own learning at the core of process.
  •  
    As I read this article, I couldn't help but think of my adult basic education students. I think the explanation of how the brain works to students who believe they are "not smart" is key for my students. These particular adult learners are participating in a GED/Adult High School program. The majority of the students were kicked out of school or dropped out of school. They understand that they in a foundational skills program and must develop their basic educational skills to advance in other areas of life. Unfortunately, I think that many of them have the mindset that they believe that are "not book smart." I think it is wonderful that this teacher/neurologist found that her students became more engaged and confident and they also began to change their student practices. This is my goal/hope as I work on a Problem Based Learning Module which applies the Brain Rules to an everyday mathematical scenario. I plan on presenting this PBL Module to a few adult basic math classes as a pilot to see how the adult basic education students respond to the lesson(s) and Brain Rules compared to their traditional classroom lectures and instruction.
Katy Lu

Your Amazing Brain -- National Geographic Kids - 10 views

  •  
    interesting perspective, being from the computing field I work with all types of computer technology. Sadly the one thing I wish most for the human brain is it having the abilty to upgrade as easily as a computer. We can add more processing power, more memory, and more storage. This is all done in minutes, but learning something can take a long time. This goes along with one of my favorite scenes from the Matrix trilogy, where that ability to fly a helicopter is simply downloaded. Imagine if learning was that easy and what we could accomplish as a human race...
  • ...3 more comments...
  •  
    Nice input Juan! I really appreciate the opportunity of learning more about our brain. Knowing how it functions we are able to better utilize this "human computer". I love technology. Nowadays, we can't live without computers. It is easy to upgrade, download, upload or delete files on computer, However, some memories are unable to be deletes from human brains. I guess this is the difference between computers and the human brain. After reading brain rules, I keep on reminding myself : "to give my brain a break".
  •  
    I like the comparison of a brain and a super computer and the complexity of the two. Yes, I agree the similarities are scary and promising at the same time. One of the comparisons is that both can be infected by a virus and cured by either an antivirus or an antibiotic. Although, one of differences that I can think of is even if it had a battery back up a computer can be unplug to turn it off .The other big difference I can foretell is that computer's will never be able to feel or have an emotional component attached to their hardware unlike a human brain can. I have meet people in their late eighties as sharp as a knife at a family BBQ .Image a human brain eighty years old that has never crash or had to be updated to a new operating system or unplugged for the night. I cannot foresee a future where everything we do has to be logical and act according to a plan.
  •  
    I just simply got tired reading how much our brain does and how fast it works. It kept me thinking when I read that the activities in our brain never stop; I thought it would get some rest when we slept, apparently not. I thought Juan's comment was funny about wishing for the ability to upgrade the human brain as easily we would on a computer.
  •  
    I'm really enjoying learning about the brain and how it works. This was some good info to go along with all that we are learning from Brain Rules.
  •  
    Just to think we are only scratching the surface when it comes to the mysteries of the brain! The book is also choke full of fascinating cases of extraordinary people carrying out record breaking feats!
jennalsmith

Brain Rules Schools - 1 views

  •  
    I find it interesting that the author of this brief article outlines such a non-traditional agenda / timeline for a school day and I am also interested in knowing the impact on a school system who might implement such a "bold" change to a traditional school schedule / calendar! I also find it interesting that for the most part, everyone who made a comment on the posting seemed to be in favor of seeing changes which support the Brain Rules! Maybe this means that society is ready for these changes!?!?! (What are your thoughts?)
  •  
    I think the time is a bit long, but the shorted compressed timeframes are appropriate. If anything, I think they are about 5 minutes too long. There have been studies conducted showing brain activity in people. When you start studying, your brain activity spikes. As the studying drags on, your brain activity hits a low point. As you get closer to your end time, your brain knows that you are almost done, so it spikes again. Think of it as a reverse bell curve. Well, at the points that are spiking, you are retaining more, even if you do not realize. Yet so many people spend hours studying. Most of that is in the low point of brain activity. So, you are retaining less and less. Compressed moments of teaching tend to be better. But, schools are reluctant to adopt this model.
  •  
    One of the first things that I noticed when I read this article is that it says that the playlist consists of 10 minute intervals. This is one of the things we learn from Brain Rules and TedTalks and other presentation preparations. Attention is gathered for about 10 minutes before you need to do something to capture your audience again. We don't pay attention to boring things, as Brain Rule #4 says and we definitely don't pay attention to things that run on and on. The playlist also compiles visual math which applies to sensory integration with rule #9 where we learn that the best way to remember things is to activate the most senses possible. The playlist also "recycles through concepts they have already mastered." Here we see rule #6, Remember to Repeat, in action. The article also talks about part of the day being "gender-separated." This made me reflect on rule #11, Male and female brains are different. It is fantastic to see Brain Rules at work. It is an effective testimony to what works!
Katy Lu

Surprising Differences Between the Male and Female Brain | Yahoo Health - 12 views

  • Even when men and women succeed at the same task, they tend to call on different strengths and areas of the brain to achieve this result,
    • Katy Lu
       
      I strongly agree with this viewpoint. 
  •  
    I don't think there is any question regarding who is smarter, just take a look as who is in charge after the standard 8-5. Funny aside, I remember hearing that male and female brains are wired differently since early evolution. Males were wired to be hunters while females were wired to be gatherers and of course take care of the children. Now this notion in today's world is asking for trouble, but it is simply how we evolved.
  • ...7 more comments...
  •  
    You made an interesting point Juan, but have we evolved? Even with both parents working 40+ hours a week, in most cases isn't it the mom who makes sure dinner is on the table, laundry is done, and house is clean even if its take out, picking up the laundry from he cleaners, and hiring the maid? The women of the family still do most of the shopping and pay the bills. Men on the other hand go hunting or fishing, mow the lawn, and fix things around the house, or hire the people to do it. Of course there is always the exception to the rule and that has been the case throughout the years.
  •  
    Given that I am a product of a single working mom, I would disagree (especially if I knew what was good for me). I know that that is likely the norm, but I feel it is a case of nature vs. nurture more than the size of human brains. I comes down to how you are being raised, my daughters will likely twist their husbands arms "literally" if they don't help out..
  •  
    Jackie and Juan, Interesting exchange! I would only add that, for the most part, it is women who take care of children, boys and girls. And yet, we seem to perpetuate the differences and tend to ask our children to do chores in very gender specific ways. Boys wash the car, girls wash the dishes, kind of thing.
  •  
    Thanks for your input Juan, Jackie, and Maria! Social norms such as pink for girls, blue for boys, and arguments of the definition of famine and masculine have existed and affect our social relationships. Studies show that gender role norms affect the way people act, feel, and think. I am glad we are able to take this opportunity to learn more about anatomical differences between male and female brains in chapter 11, which also explains why male and female act differently in many things. As described in the chapter that "women are more likely to get depressed than men". After reading this Yahoo article, which "Women live longer, but on average men are happier" can also be well explained. Enjoy your reading boys and girls!
  •  
    I can't comment on the woman side, but on the men being happier side is a simple one. Men really don't mature past the age of 15. We watch football and get loud the same as when we were kids. Most of us are easily amused.
  •  
    I agree with you Juan. We do need outlets to relieve stress. I believe speak out loud, laugh out loud with friends are good ways to relieve stress. (here comes the gender stereotype, men are allowed to drink to talk out loud in the public, what about a group of women??? ) I've read an article that some Japanese company has a mini gym in their office building. There are no treadmills, no weights, but punching gloves and punching bags. After never-ending bow down in a long day, go to gym and imagine the punching bag is the boss. What a creative way of relieving stress at work.
  •  
    This article seems to have good information about the differences between men and women. I have read similar articles, especially about the different brain hemispheres utilized by men and women. In the article, it states that women are better planners, organizers and learn from their mistakes. I think every man should read this article. Especially, the part were women learn from their mistakes because most men make the same mistake over and over.
  •  
    Lol! I do believe that in terms of talking about who is smarter it is a waste of time since mental aptitude really depends on each individual. Just like some female body builders are bigger and possibly also stronger than most men out there, it is also possible that some man may be smarter than most other woman. The difference is in how the brain is wired.
  •  
    I also agree that many of these differences stem from differences that exist from person to person (outside the scope of gender). However, as the book Brain Rules states, "gender biases hurt real people in real-world situations." Sex and gender are two different things. Gender, relating to social expectations plays an important and has role-deciding factors in our work places, our classrooms, and our lives in general. It shocked me to read Martin Luther's quote (1483-1546) that stated, "Girls begin to talk and stand on their feet sooner than boys because weeds always grow up more quickly than good crops." If this doesn't leave an impression on you (male or female), I don't know what does! The battle of the sexes has always existed. John Medina states that is is a matter of statistics, however I don't think that anyone will argue that men and women's brains are scientifically different, so how can we not expect the physical, physiological, and overall compositions of each to be different in comparison.
Martha Rodriguez

Men have bigger brains, but it doesn't make them smarter. :) - 7 views

A larger brain does not necessarily grant greater intelligence. It is generally understood that one needs to take into account the ratio of brain to body mass. Basically this means that the larger ...

brain learning female male

asuarez1

Building a Better School with Brain-Based Learning | Edutopia - 0 views

  •  
    Brain-Based Learning in Florida
  •  
    I love that the video mentions "motivation initiative". Isn't that what it is all about? Letting students make connections, and creating a life-long desire to learn should be the focus. Brain-Based Learning encompasses learning styles and explains how the brain works. Isn't it important to know how a machine works in order to get the most out of it? What amazes me most about the video is that the students are engaged. Although many are working independently, they is no down time. Brain-Based Learning allows educators to use the time in the class effectively. The video also mentions special needs students. The beauty of this is that Brain-Based Learning applies to all learners! In the video, you see the rules applied. For example, #4 We don't pay attention to boring things is clear when you see all the students engaged and active. Repeat to remember is also evident since the students get multiple opportunities to practice the skill they are working on. Sensory integration is also important. The students were engaged in a multitude of activities that initiate the senses. This video is a clear example that our students are powerful and natural explorers. What would happen to our world if we treated them that way?
  •  
    The portion of the video that I thought was the most interesting was the approach that Jeanne Kurth takes in her classroom (bean bag chairs, water feature sound machine---#1 brain gym, # classroom environment, and #3 the way she presents her five subject areas.) I love that these teachers are customizing their teaching to the needs of the students. I think I will share this video with my team of instructors to encourage them to change up their lesson presentations!
Jaime Villanueva

Know Thyself With A Brain Scanner - 9 views

I realize most people would be skeptical Jackie about the technology. One can only image the positive implications this technology can have in our daily lives. One example that comes to mind is a c...

http:__www.ted.com_talks_ariel_garten_know_thyself_with_a_brain_scanner.html

Pedro Rodriguez

The Neurochemistry of Positive Conversations - Judith E. Glaser, and Richard D. Glaser ... - 2 views

  • The Neurochemistry of Positive Conversations
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      I choose this article because it relates to Brain Based learning. Also we all need to positive conversations.
  • Why do negative comments and conversations stick with us so much longer than positive ones?
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      Before reading the article, I attempted to answer the question based on my readings. At first I would think its how we encode the information. We tend to encode information better when its is tied to something we feel or is familiar to use.? Before reading the article, please attempt to answer the questions: Why do negative comments and conversations stick with us so much longer than positive ones?
    • Lauren Simpson
       
      I think that negative comments and conversations stick with us because they elicit a bigger emotional response than positive comments. Negative comments make you feel angry, sad, depressed, and sometimes guilty. Those are feelings that, at least for me, stick around longer than feelings of joyfulness, happiness, etc.
  • A critique from a boss, a disagreement with a colleague, a fight with a friend – the sting from any of these can make you forget a month’s worth of praise or accord. If you’ve been called lazy, careless, or a disappointment, you’re likely to remember and internalize it. It’s somehow easier to forget, or discount, all the times people have said you’re talented or conscientious or that you make them proud.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      Most go through this at work, school, or through their personal life. I choose this article because we all can relate to it. Please take a moment and reflect of a similar situation you have gone through. 
    • rtrevin5
       
      This is an important point. The other day I was telling a co-worker, you can do a thousand things right, but you'll be remembered for the one thing you do wrong. In education, I have found that people do not want to call my son lazy despite the fact that he is very obviously being lazy. They say he needs to be more professional. In my workplace, that means dress better or speak better, but it has nothing to do with performance. If you are lazy, you get called lazy. The group polices itself. This is an important lesson that despite articles and psychologists and others saying negative feedback is bad - well, it still happens in the workforce. Just reality. And kids need to be prepared for that.
  • ...6 more annotations...
  • Chemistry plays a big role in this phenomenon. When we face criticism, rejection or fear, when we feel marginalized or minimized, our bodies produce higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that shuts down the thinking center of our brains and activates conflict aversion and protection behaviors. We become more reactive and sensitive. We often perceive even greater judgment and negativity than actually exists. And these effects can last for 26 hours or more, imprinting the interaction on our memories and magnifying the impact it has on our future behavior. Cortisol functions like a sustained-release tablet – the more we ruminate about our fear, the longer the impact.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      This is similar to what John Medina describes. The brain imprints or encodes events much better when there is "elaborate" information.  Medina explains that we vividly recall information when associated with fear. 
  • This “chemistry of conversations” is why it’s so critical for all of us –especially managers – to be more mindful about our interactions. Behaviors that increase cortisol levels reduce what I call “Conversational Intelligence” or “C-IQ,” or a person’s ability to connect and think innovatively, empathetically, creatively and strategically with others. Behaviors that spark oxytocin, by contrast, raise C-IQ.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      Understanding how the brain works, I believe we can use what we have learned and apply it to practical situations. I chose this article because we can understand how the brain works and use that knowledge and apply it in our everyday lives. 
  • unfortunately, when leaders exhibit both types of behaviors it creates dissonance or uncertainty in followers’ brains, spurring cortisol production and reducing CI-Q.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      I believe this is very important because if you are a leaders, your followers will be uncertain and will cause them to be distrustful to you. Leading your followers will be much harder.
  • sking questions to stimulate discussion, showing concern for others, and painting a compelling picture of shared success
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      Here are a few positive (oxytocin-producing)  behaviors one can do as a leader. 
  • his tendency was to tell and sell his ideas, entering most discussions with a fixed opinion, determined to convince others he was right. He was not open to others’ influence; he failed to listen to connect.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      This are the types of behaviours one needs to stay away from. I am sometimes guilty of such behaviors. Taking this course is helping my leadership skills through Brain Based learning.  
  • Harness the chemistry of conversations.
    • Pedro Rodriguez
       
      I like that saying. What do you think overall of this article?
Jeff Blackman

How the Freaky Octopus Can Help us Understand the Human Brain - Wired Science - 4 views

    • Jeff Blackman
       
      I swear, I have worked with people with this level of intelligence!
    • Jeff Blackman
       
      I swear, I've worked with people at this level of intelligence!!  :-)
  • If you want to study an alien intelligence, Godfrey-Smith says, “octopuses are the closest thing we have.”
    • Jeff Blackman
       
      Maybe octopi ARE aliens!  Seriously, though, it is interesting how far away they are from other "intelligent" animals as far as anatomy yet, are able to do some pretty amazing things.
  • ...2 more annotations...
  • Octopuses in the wild may be using tools—a feat that, not so long ago, was considered the exclusive domain of humans (though now we know it’s the province of other species too, like dolphins and some birds).
  • But somehow octopuses do things that suggest they’re brainier than plenty of animals with backbones and more familiar nervous systems.
  •  
    We have all heard stories about someone's really "smart" dog or cat who can do these "amazing" things. But the lowly octopus gets virtually ignored. What are some other animals you think are smarter than we give them credit for? Have you observed something amazing from an animal you wouldn't have expected it from? (It's ok if it was just you in the woods alone. We won't think you're crazy or anything!) :-)
  • ...7 more comments...
  •  
    Link to annotations: https://diigo.com/01bzzm
  •  
    So this is what you meant, Jeff? "Rocky the Octopus predicts Super Bowl 46 winner" http://youtu.be/XCxFiWLUtfo
  •  
    LOL Exactly!! :-)
  •  
    Very interesting! Could it be that because the octopus is something that is not easy to study in nature because they are smart enough to evade? Makes you wonder if this is why we never see "Bigfoot" or "Nessy." No really, how could we not believe that there are animals or other beings out "there" that are more intelligent or at the least intelligent in different ways? I bet if you talked to anybody who worked in a lab with animals you would hear stories of behavior that would not be typical of that particular animal. Why? Because the animal is not in its natural environment. No matter how big or small a brain is, it will adapt to the situation it finds itself in. This happens everyday when stray animals of all types are abandoned in areas that are not their natural habitats such as "domestic" snakes in Florida in the 80's and 90's. Now, what does Florida have? A BIG snake problem, because although I would think the snake would not have much of a brain they learn to survive in areas that get colder than they are accustomed too by surviving.
  •  
    The ocean is by far the most unexplored area on earth. It covers about seventy percent of the earth's surface that is vital to our planets survival. It regulates the earth's temperature and supports living organisms like the octopus. I read an article a few years ago that 90 percent of the ocean still to this day remains unexplored. I cannot believe with the advancement of technology 90 percent of the ocean is still unexplored. If you think about it the ocean is a big museum that can provide us with many answers to most of our questions.
  •  
    Yes, Jackie, it is really amazing how animals are able to adapt. Humans so often think we can control these things but it's not so simple. Jaime, it does make you wonder what else is under there that we don't even have any idea about. Could be very exciting...or scary! (Pacific Rim, anyone?)
  •  
    I is fascinating how animals can adapted to their environments. The oceans are filled with animals that act like and hunt like land animals. They have to find their niche to live or perish. Darwin's studies on this have always amazed me. Maybe we can find an animal in the ocean as smart as us.
  •  
    This kind of research makes you think if we need to redefine the concept of intelligence and problem solving skills. As Adam said, we may find out that there are animals that are just as smart as us!
  •  
    Thank you so much for sharing such an interesting article with 'sassy' octopus stories. I agree that we need to start thinking outside of the box and try studying intelligence in a new light. PS: I knew that octopuses are smart but I guess they are smarter than I thought they were...
Maria Austin

Russell Foster: Why do we sleep? | Video on TED.com - 1 views

  •  
    Hello, everybody! This week, Shaila Ahmed and I will be hosting the discussion on Brain Rule # 7. We are sharing a number of videos and articles on sleep and the brain. We hope you enjoy them and comment on your approach to sleeping and sleeping patterns. We will start the conversation with this question from this video: 32 years spent sleeping!! A waste of time?
  •  
    Week 8: Brain Rule #7. We would also like to share the following links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EI96e38zMj4&list=PL864BD9A550344BEE And: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtyAFli26vU&list=PL864BD9A550344BEE Thank you in advance for your comments.
Jackie Byford

Sound versus Music versus Audio versus Noise - 26 views

This is something I have thought about incorporating into my classroom, but always wonder if I am picking the right music for the right situation. I am like your daughter's Richard. I started colle...

Janice Wilson Butler

Jill Bolte Taylor's stroke of insight - 1 views

  •  
    From YouTube: Neuroanatomist Jill Bolte Taylor had an opportunity few brain scientists would wish for: One morning, she realized she was having a massive stroke. As it happened -- as she felt her brain functions slip away one by one, speech, movement, understanding -- she studied and remembered every moment. This is a powerful story about how our brains define us and connect us to the world and to one another.
Janice Wilson Butler

Home - My Stroke of Insight - 0 views

    • Janice Wilson Butler
       
      After seeing her video, it becomes clear what is really important - a balanced brain. It is hard to find that peaceful side of your brain when the left-side chatters so much.
  • . This website, created by Dr. Jill, is intended to be a resource for you as you find your way to discovering your own insights
Richard Wilson

In the Brain, 7 is a magic number - 5 views

  •  
    In 2011, I entered into an extended coma -- 2 months. After awakening and 3 months of cognitive therapy I could only recall a verbal list of 6 items. Longer than that and my brain got scrambled. I would forget the whole list. I felt that I had not recovered very well, but then I saw this article.
  • ...3 more comments...
  •  
    Fascinating article. I'm shocked to learn this, Richard. You have certainly come a long way! The brain is a powerful instrument, indeed!
  •  
    That is amazing Richard. I have read a lot of Malcolm Gladwells work and he talks about repetition and doing things many times to remember them. I hope you have made a full recovery. Good Luck!
  •  
    Adam, Gladwell is one of those guys I've long wanted to read. Memory is one of my hot buttons, so thanks for the reference. I'll see what he has to say! Any recommendations on where to start?
  •  
    Jennifer, The Tipping Point, Blink, and Outliers are all great reads. I have enjoyed all of them.
  •  
    You guys think that that's the answer to why I am able to remember phone numbers in the States (7 digits) but not the ones here is Singapore (8 digits)? Glad you made a full recovery, Richard.
Richard Wilson

10,000 brains wired together - 8 views

Hi Juan, You have just frightened me. The Borg is Hive-Mentality gone totally wrong. The Borg was actually what came to my mind when originally typing, so I added the word "momentarily" to my post.

Jackie Byford

Technology adds to students' math comprehension | eSchool News | eSchool News - 7 views

  • The animations are so powerful; bisecting an angle becomes a really visual experience,” Bates said.
  • The report found that students often referred to the roles of visual imagery, animations, and videos in helping them understand key concepts.
  • Moving imagery was clearly a key means for [students] to ‘see what is meant,’ rather than their trying to ‘imagine what is meant’ when it is just described by teachers,” the report found
  • ...1 more annotation...
  • the [MathsAlive] resources enabled a more collaborative environment to emerge, where they were working with students to construct problems and devise methods to solve them,” the study found.
    • Jackie Byford
       
      This article discusses using technology in the Mathematics classroom with findings that suggest that the experiences by students with the animations and visual imagery help them "see" the mathematical concepts verses having to visualize how math works. For many of us this is the case. We learn better when we see or have hands-on experiences with the concepts we are learning. There is a deeper understanding because it takes more for the brain to encode the information into memory when a true experience with critical thinking comes together simultaneously, (Medina, 2008). Schools spend millions of dollars on textbook adoptions every year, needless to say it is a booming business. If research shows that hands-on visual learning will improve not only the learning of the material, but improve critical thinking to empower and build the next generation of problem solvers, why do many educators still stand at the front of the room and lecture from a textbook or tell their students to read this chapter and fill out this worksheet? Compare the experiences you had as a child in school with the experiences today's children have with technology, not only at school, but at home with electronic devices such as ipads. Do you think the next generation that started with an ipad or computer in their hands by age 5 will be more experienced learners because of the visuals and hands-on thinking that is needed to work these devise? Has the induction of these devices helped you become a more in depth better learner? Medina, J. (2008). Brain Rules. Seattle, WA: Pear Press.
  •  
    Very interesting! Your comments made me wonder if teachers, more often than not, stand in the way of learning more than trying to act as mediators. It is sad to see that young children start their lives at school eager to learn and being active participants of that amazing process of discovery that is the acquisition of knowledge and then see them 3 years down the road, so discouraged and demotivated! What happened? Somehow that is regarded as a normal process, part of their growing and maturing. I have to say that I disagree. Answering your questions...I belong to the generation of the Commodore, Basics and Texas Instruments. I remember spending hours programming my computer. It did make me more curious about technology and I found fascinating that just a few symbols could create so much magic. Children nowadays do not have that much of a connection with the process of creation but they do develop a lot more hands on skills that are essentially the ones they will need in the future. These skills are key but they still require the development of critical thinking in order for them to acquire a more in depth knowledge of any topic. It is at this juncture that teachers are invaluable partners in the educational process. In my opinion, this should be the center of every planning and strategic use of educational methodologies.
  • ...10 more comments...
  •  
    Jackie, I do think the next generation will have more experienced learners. There has never been a more important time to apply principles of development and learning when considering the use of cutting-edge technologies and new media. When the integration of technology and interactive media in early childhood programs is built upon solid developmental foundations, and early childhood professionals are aware of both the challenges and the opportunities, educators are positioned to improve program quality by intentionally leveraging the potential of technology and media for the benefit of every child.
  •  
    I really liked the piece you picked for the discussion group. In my school district we are implementing a 1:x initiative that all students will have Ipads and use them in the classroom. I think this is great on some instances and bad on others. Like the discussion says kids learn more when a video or some other form of multimedea follows with instruction. I get that and I am trying to use this in my classroom. The hard part about this philosophy right now is most of the students that we have, have grown up with the Ipad as a toy not an educational device and having the students think about the Ipad as an educational device is harder said than done it seems. My son is in the 4th grade and was given an Ipad 2 weeks ago. He has been able to some great things with it as a learning tool BUT he still sees the Ipad as something he gets to play Mine Craft on and not a learning tool. My high school students are having a harder time using the Ipad for educational use. I did not mean to derail this thread with this topic but my experience is telling me that we are at a cross roads right now. We have students that started with pen and paper and slowly have moved to a more technology based education are struggling using the technology because they have only used the technology as a toy up until now. The students coming up have had the technology earlier in life and are able to use it in class but they are still having a hard time associating the technology with learning. I guess what I am saying is that I know that the use of the technology will help the students learn but the students are having a hard time realizing that the technology is an educational tool as well as a game. What can we do to help the students realize the powerful tools they have at their disposal these days that we did not growing up?
  •  
    Maria, I have to admit that I am guilty of standing in the way of technology. It is hard to incorporate the technology in a way that is resourceful and useful. I think Adam hit the nail on the head when he talks about the fact that today's student thinks of the technology as a toy not an educational tool, even if they played educational games. Martha has the key that the integration of technologies needs to be built on a strong foundation so that the new generation can see the ipad as a tool instead of a toy.
  •  
    Jackie, You bring up very interesting points as do Adam and Martha. I would reflect on the different issues tackled maybe separating them into their different components. One element is the learning process: as Martha says, applying proper methodologies and evidence-based research in the classroom is essential. My question would be: as teachers, we have all been taught and trained in developmental theories and educational methodologies, however, very little of that seems to trickle into our practice, I wonder why. Another point would be the use of technology as such and the definition of a learning process: if the learning process is restricted to the acquisition of data, technology can do very little for us, since internet, ipads, etc. are, for the most part, meant to facilitate the spread of information. Maybe the emphasis should be on the development of skills that would allow students to process and discriminate sources and facts, and be able to apply them to a variety of real life situations. The acquisition of data should be dependent upon the development of higher order thinking skills. In this sense, the line separating the use of technology as a toy and the use of technology to facilitates the access to data is not very easy to draw. It has been argued that the development of problem solving skills and creativity is at the core of many games. Should the educational process be limited to games? Most certainly not, but, I think that technology is forcing us to redefine the way we see learning.
  •  
    Interesting dialogue! Maria, I completely agree that the emphasis should be on the development of higher order skills. I know, too, that technology can rapidly turn off students if it is slow or boring or whatever they are doing with it doesn't interest them. I think real learning is always going to come back to meeting students where they are and getting them to think in new ways about topics they care about--whether they are using technology or not. So technology may be forcing us to redefine the way we teach, but I don't think it's redefining the key elements of effective teaching.
  •  
    I'm amazed we know as much as we do given the way we were taught and how it is so "wrong" compared to the way our brains actually work. I think that says something for human resilience and adaptation. In spite of the classrooms we endured and seemingly endless lectures, a lot of us have still been able to come out ok and be pretty darned effective in our lives and jobs. Do I think the next generation will be more experienced learners because of the hands on nature of various devices they've been exposed to? Not necessarily. It still depends on how it is used. If all my 5 year old does is play some game on my iPhone, I don't know if that is making her a more experienced learner. Just like anything else, it takes the parent or educator to be involved and help the child use the device in the most effective way.
  •  
    Maria you are absolutely correct! As educators we know what we should do, but it is not the easy road so we fall short sometimes in using proper methodologies. I believe there are many reasons "excuses" such as: classes are large with too many learning styles, paperwork gets in the way of planning, not enough time in class to apply methodologies. Let's face it when it comes down to the wire the use of methodologies are just good teaching skills, which should include the use of current technologies in the right context and for the right reason. I think too many times educational games just become "play" time and a break for the teacher to get other work done. They are called educational, but many times the kids just see the game not the educational aspect. Jennifer and Jeff, I don't think I could have said it any better. In order to be an effective teacher, one must incorporate the available tools in a way that meets the needs of the students. It all breaks down to how we use technology. Thinking about how "we" learned referring to those of us over 30 who did not have all this technology in school, we did turn out okay. If I talk to my colleagues who have taught more than 15 years they would say that the technology has taught our current students to be less effective at critical thinking when it comes to academics, yet they can learn, maneuver, and use problem solving skills to navigate the newest video games. Have any of you tried to play "Call of Duty" or "World of Warcraft?" They are not easy! It takes time, repetition, and good problem solving skills to get through each level. Maybe we as educators need to be more versed in the problem solving skills in popular games and be able to show our students the connection between the skills they use in the classroom and the skills they use in those games. It would give them the answer to that age old question, "Why am I learning this_____________?"
  •  
    Totally in accord, Jackie! Technology should be only one more tool and, consequently, it should be used only under certain criteria.
  •  
    Teacher do become an obstacle in the classroom, but not of their own accord. They get their hands tied by state testing the ruins education and district politics that can end their careers. It is really sad to see what education has become, if you as a few generations before us, it was a privilege to go to school and today students seem to have to go kicking and screaming. The misconception I have gotten from several teachers that I know is that they have this odd belief that the technology is there to replace them or simply teach the class for them. Technology is a tool that is meant to be wielded by someone who understands it. I think in the next few years we are going to see an exodus of pre-technology teachers and and influx of Generation iPad teachers who are tech savvy and have grown up with the technology. I think that will be a game changer for education and good serving of job security for students in our field.
  •  
    I normally will skip articles which mention arithmetic. My eyes are easily caught by a visually appealing graphic, a photograph or a poem. But I absolutely agree that "animations and visual images help students see the mathematical concepts and to visualize how math works." Particularly when integrated learning with games, it will make learning more effective and proficient. I believe next generation children will definitely acquire a different learning style with technology, and is much unlike ours.
  •  
    Jackie, i found a great article on why some children are bad in math! I do not believe that some kids lack the aptitude for math ! http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/wp/2013/03/27/why-is-math-so-hard-for-so-many/
  •  
    It is certainly lovely to see children learning in different ways that make sense to the particular individual. I wish I had the chance to learn new concepts with the aid of visualization. The question is: how many teachers are truly using the resources that are available to them?
Richard Wilson

Feed Your Head, Rule #1, #7 - 5 views

Long ago, when lyrics were not explicit and wardrobes were not raw, Grace Slick, serendipitously slipped a drug reference past the music censors, referring to hallucinating. Medina, years later, m...

started by Richard Wilson on 27 Oct 13 no follow-up yet
Jackie Byford

Brains & Caffeine: Are we ACTUALLY wired that differently? - 14 views

I never really drank much caffeine growing up. I didn't start drinking coffee until I was in college in my 30's. At first it was to keep warm on the chilly morning in Northwest Arkansas. I am not s...

Janice Wilson Butler

A Stroke of Insight - 2 views

Some of you may have already seen the video above about a "brain scientist" who lived to talk about her stroke. I watch this probably about once a year - sometimes more often. It is a truly amazing...

brain stroke. TED

started by Janice Wilson Butler on 01 Sep 13 no follow-up yet
1 - 20 of 32 Next ›
Showing 20 items per page