Reflections on Lesson 1

Lesson 1 introduced us to the importance of experience on the development of a healthy brain.  I learned several new concepts and was challenged to think outside of the current educational box to account for our brain's natural propensity for learning and growth.

 

According to Children and Brain Development:  What We Know About How Children Learn, prepared by Judith Graham, heredity (or nature) determines the number of neurons a child is born with and their basic structure.   A majority of the neurons in a developed brain are actually present at birth, but it is the number of synaptic connections between these neurons that explode exponentially during the first 2 years of a child’s life.  During sensitive periods, certain synapses are more likely to be shaped and developed.  Experience serves to strengthen those synapses being more utilized, or eliminate those synapses that are not being used.  It is important to understand not only these sensitive periods, but how to best develop these synapses to encourage their becoming part of the permanent foundation of the brain’s architecture.

 

Taking what was learned in the video “The Changing Brain” and relating it to the position taken by Eric Jensen in “Brain-Based Learning,” it is easy to see how so much of today’s educational system gets it wrong when it comes to naturally encouraging the full development of the human brain by maximizing the potential present during sensitive periods of the brain’s growth.  Brain-based learning is the implementation of strategies and principles in accordance with how the brain naturally is wired to learn.  Unfortunately, educators are too bogged down by ineffective programs and bureaucracy to effectively implement these strategies in the classroom. 

 

As a teacher, I will be more cognizant of the effect experiences have on the development of my students’ brain architecture and their ability to develop to their full potential.  Knowing that brain development is different for every student based on his or her experiences during early childhood will enable me to be more sensitive to the cognitive and behavioral differences among my students.  It will also inspire me to create those types of experiences that will foster positive growth in the brain and create stronger brain architecture for future development.Fostering healthy experiences inside the classroom is only a part of the battle, however.  By being aware of sensitive periods in which my students will have the maximum ability to create long-lasting brain growth in particular areas, I can harness their natural potential and help them more fully realize their ultimate potential.  Also, it may be important for me to evaluate the experiences each student has with other students or adults, experiences on the playground, and even experiences at home, as well, to ensure that the healthiest development can occur.