Teaching EFL with the Brain in mind

Teaching EFL with the Brain in Mind Bertha Leiva USB

Priming

Some info. on brain’s structure

Major Neuroscience findings

Brain-based learning

Learning and Memory

Implications

As teachers what do we know about the brain?

What do we know about brain lobes?

Neuroscience Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI Electroencephalogram EEG-MEG Lab animals Pet scans

STOP In the next 2 minutes STAND UP MOVE TO A DIFFERENT PLACE OF THE ROOM MEET COLLEAGUES

Neuroscience findings The brain has a triad structure The brain is not a computer The brain changes with use, throughout our lifetime survival emotions thinking

Meaning Patterns Connections Humans’ search for meaning is innate The search for meaning comes through patterning Emotions are critical to patterning, and drive our attention, meaning and memory Meaning is more important than just information Meaning is generated from within, not externally

More key brain research findings EMOTION Is the gatekeeper to learning

INTELLIGENCE is a function of EXPERIENCE

what is meaningful

from the

LEARNER’S perspective .

The brain stores most effectively

it develops better

in concert with other brains.

The brain is social

is enhanced by challenge

Complex learning and inhibited by stress

Limitations of the Brain

Memories are malleable.

It rarely gets it right

the first time.

Too much, too fast,

won´t last

Difficulty of altering

representations

formed in early life

Brain-Based learning

how current research in neuroscience suggests our brain learns naturally .

what we know about the actual structure and function of the human brain at different stages of development.

biologically driven framework for teaching and learning that helps explain recurring learning behaviors.

meta-concept that includes an eclectic mix of techniques: teachers connect learning to students’ real life experiences

Brain-Based learning

encompasses such educational concepts as:

learning styles

multiple intelligences

emotional intelligence

cooperative learning

problem-based learning

experiential learning

movement education

STOP AGAIN In the next 2 minutes STAND UP Walk around the room Share your expectations about this session with a new colleague

Learning and memory: two sides of a coin to neuroscientists Learning occurs when a cell requires less input from another cell the next time it is activated The cell has learned to respond differently A cell is stimulated repeatedly so it excites a nearby cell. The more stimulation, the more likely long-term memory is created. Learning is achieved through the alteration of synaptic efficacy

Learning and Memory

Use complex memory strategies involving changes of location, intensity of emotion, movement, rest, art, performances, writing, sketching, etc., to engage multiple memory pathways and strengthen memory connections .

Information is stored in multiple areas of the brain and is retrieved through multiple memory and neural pathways so:

Learning and Memory

Avoid losing the existing synaptic connections.

Repeat the learning or knowledge through various methods long term memory.

Organize info. graphically: the brain is designed to learn and develop patterns of thinking which can be replicated quickly.

Be aware that all learning is mind-body: movement, foods, attention cycles, and chemicals modulate learning and affect memory.

Now, what do we do with all this info.?

SHARE YOUR IDEAS WITH THE PERSON SITTING / STANDING NEXT TO YOU

Teaching strategies

Connections are best made when presenting material in an integrated interdisciplinary way (manipulatives, field trips, guest speakers, real-life projects)

A relaxed, nonthreatening environment that removes students' fear of failure while maintaining a highly challenging environment is considered best for brain-based learning.

Class strategies

Start most activities with questions that will guide your next actions: priming

Avoid threats and confrontations

Have students learn about the brain

Have:

High structure multiple rituals ,

Journaling and reflection time

Celebrations, cheers, many positives

Frequent accountability meetings

Arts: music, performance, visuals

High interest content

Movement , activity, purposeful games

Constant feedback and support

Flexibility in seating and positioning

Repetition and visual prompts

?

Ideally in the classroom there should be …

Rich, stimulating environments : bulletin boards and display areas.

Places for group learning : tables and desks grouped together.

Indoor and outdoor spaces : to move about and oxygenate.

Classroom displays changed regularly : students

create stage sets where they can act out scenes from their readings or demonstrate a science principle or act out a dialogue between historical figures.

Active and passive places : quiet areas for reflection and retreat from others to use intrapersonal intelligence .

Enrichment: The brain can grow new connections at ANY AGE. Challenging, complex experiences with appropriate feedback are best. Cognitive skills develop better with music and motor skills.

Personal space : a desk or locker area to allow learners to express their unique identity.

Implement diverse and alternative assessment

Promote PORTFOLIOS for reflective improvement and self-assessment. These help teachers and students observe demonstrated growth over time.

Assess students’ progress through PEER assignments, demonstrations, writing and art as well as pre and post surveys and tests.

Have both verbal and written student SELF-assessments to evaluate academic growth, and interdisciplinary and cross-curricular projects to provide for REALISTIC assessment tools.

Keep appropriate content mastery through regular TESTING programs that promote multiple answers.

In essence, expose students to MULTIPLE assessment methods.

It thrives on water, proteins, challenge and a threat-free environment

Remember that :

Neural growth happens because of the process , not the solution to a problem.

Authentic learning situations increase the brain's ability to make connections and retain new information.

Feedback is best when it comes from reality , rather than from an authority figure.

Lasting learning occurs when students have a personally meaningful challenge.

Use it or lose it

References

Costa, A. (2001). Developing Minds: A Resource Book for Teaching Thinking. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development ASCD.