Using Brain-based Learning
To Create a Better Learning Environment
Our brains have the ability to change throughout life.
New neural pathways are formed when we challenge our thinking. Pathways can also shrink if unused.
Emotions are linked to learning.
We learn best when there is a balance of high challenge and low stress.
The brain is a pattern-maker.
It likes to take information and order it to make meaning. We learn best when the activity is connected to physical experiences.
What are some implications of brain research for teaching mathematics?
- All of our students are capable of learning mathematics.
- Problem-based learning provides challenging experiences for students.
- Problems need to be relevant, authentic, and appropriately challenging.
- It is essential to build a math community in which it is safe for students to share thinking, make mistakes, and learn from one another.
- Brain-based learning supports focusing on process expectations.
Tips and Tricks:
Establish norms of collaboration
Post talk prompts for discourse
Encourage students to pose and test theories
Provide a variety of work spaces for students
Ask questions to prompt thinking
Store math manipulatives in open bins, easily accessible and available for use