Brain Based Research

Brain-based research focuses on how the brain naturally learns to create effective instruction using current research from neuroscience. It is primarily based on what we currently know about the actual structure and function of the human brain at varying developmental stages, as stated by Dr. Leslie Wilson from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Brain-based research has proven that traditional methods of teaching can discourage and even ignore our brain’s natural learning processes. This research has impacted education in several ways through curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

Educational research based upon how the brain processes information has directly impacted education. First, research has shown that when teachers design learning around student interest, learning is made contextual. Next, it also states how educators should encourage students to work in teams and structure learning around real problems, even allowing students to learn in settings outside the classroom, such as on a field trip. This directly impacts curriculum and instruction. Lastly, assessments should be varied and portfolios are encouraged as they provide a means for reflective improvement and self-assessment.

Brain-based learning has also proven that how the brain works significantly impacts the types of learning activities that will be most effective. Orchestrated immersion, relaxed alertness, and active processing are three instructional techniques, which have been associated with brain-based learning. Orchestrated immersion states that teachers should create learning environments that fully immerse students in an educational experience, such as building a rainforest in the classroom filled with stuffed animals and paper trees that reach to the ceiling or taking students to a forest to study animal tracks in the snow. Relaxed alertness focuses on eliminating any fears in learners, while preserving a highly challenging environment. Teachers should strive to have a positive learning environment where students feel safe and are encouraged to learn. Educators may play classical music to set a relaxed tone when appropriate or dim bright lights. Finally, active processing enables a student to gain insight about a problem through intensive analysis and through making connections to prior learning. This enables students to have a deeper understanding and then use this information in real life situations.

Brain-based learning has many benefits in creating effective instruction that many teachers utilize already. To begin with, it allows students to be exposed to a hands-on learning approach where they are fully immersed in their educational experience. It also allows students to work in a highly challenging, safe, and positive environment. Lastly, since each brain is unique, we know is it best to have multiple means of assessments and differentiated instruction, which focus on a students own learning styles and preferences.

While brain-based research has numerous benefits in creating effective instruction, there are also some drawbacks. First, many teachers may have a difficult time meeting state standards if they spend too much time immersing their students in one particular subject. It can also be difficult for teachers to find the time, funding, and materials to turn their classroom into a rainforest or take their students on a field trip due to budget cuts. Brain-based learning also seems to work best with smaller class sizes and motivated students. Larger class sizes with several unmotivated students could make it difficult for educators to have a brain-based learning classroom.

Research has proven that through brain-based research, various teaching strategies can lead to more effective instruction in the classroom. Through a balance of hands-on instruction, differentiation, student collaboration, and real-life examples, students can reach their full potential and learn based on how their brain naturally functions.