A Classroom Teacher's Quest to Evaluate Brain Based Teaching Advice

As a classroom teacher, I am always looking for new and innovative ways to improve my teaching practice. When I came across brain based teaching, I was intrigued. Brain based teaching is a method of teaching that is based on the latest research on how the brain learns. Proponents of brain based teaching claim that by using brain based teaching strategies, teachers can improve student engagement, retention, and overall academic achievement.

The Goldilocks Map: A classroom teacher's quest to evaluate 'brain-based' teaching advice

by Leonard Michaels

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11641 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	332 pages
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I decided to put brain based teaching to the test in my own classroom. I implemented a number of brain based teaching strategies, and I observed the impact that these strategies had on my students. In this article, I will share my findings and discuss the effectiveness of brain based teaching.

What is Brain Based Teaching?

Brain based teaching is a method of teaching that is based on the latest research on how the brain learns. Brain based teaching strategies are designed to engage the brain's natural learning processes and to promote deep understanding. Some of the key principles of brain based teaching include:

• The brain is a complex organ that is capable of learning and adapting.
• Learning is a process that occurs over time and through repeated exposure to information.
• The brain learns best when it is engaged in active learning experiences.
• Motivation is essential for learning.
• The brain is social and learns best in collaborative environments.

Brain Based Teaching Strategies

There are a number of different brain based teaching strategies that teachers can use in the classroom. Some of the most common brain based teaching strategies include:

• Active learning: Active learning is a type of learning that requires students to do more than just listen to a lecture. Active learning activities include things like discussions, simulations, and role-playing.
• Spaced learning: Spaced learning is a technique that involves spreading out learning over time. This helps the brain to better retain information.
• Interleaving: Interleaving is a technique that involves mixing up different types of learning activities. This helps the brain to make connections between different pieces of information.
• Feedback: Feedback is essential for learning. Feedback helps students to identify areas where they need to improve.
• Motivation: Motivation is essential for learning. Teachers can use a variety of strategies to motivate students, such as setting clear goals, providing positive reinforcement, and creating a supportive learning environment.

My Experience with Brain Based Teaching

I implemented a number of brain based teaching strategies in my own classroom. I found that some of these strategies were very effective, while others were not. Some of the most effective brain based teaching strategies that I used include:

• Active learning: Active learning was one of the most effective brain based teaching strategies that I used. My students were much more engaged when they were actively involved in their learning. I used a variety of active learning activities, such as discussions, simulations, and role-playing.
• Spaced learning: Spaced learning was another effective brain based teaching strategy that I used. I found that my students were able to retain information better when it was spaced out over time. I used a variety of spaced learning techniques, such as reviewing material on a regular basis and using flashcards.
• Feedback: Feedback was essential for helping my students to learn. I provided my students with feedback on a regular basis, both formally and informally. I also encouraged my students to give each other feedback.

I also found that some brain based teaching strategies were not as effective as I had hoped. Some of the brain based teaching strategies that I found to be less effective include:

• Interleaving: I found that interleaving was not as effective as I had hoped. I found that my students were more confused when they were trying to learn different concepts at the same time.
• Music: I also found that music was not as effective as I had hoped. I found that my students were more distracted by music than they were helped by it.

Overall, I found that brain based teaching was a valuable addition to my teaching practice. I found that some brain based teaching strategies were very effective, while others were not. I also found that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to brain based teaching, and that the best approach will vary depending on the individual student and classroom. I encourage other teachers to experiment with brain based teaching strategies to see what works best for them and their students.

The Goldilocks Map: A classroom teacher's quest to evaluate 'brain-based' teaching advice

by Leonard Michaels

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11641 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	332 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE