“Brain-based teaching” is not just a fad in the education world; it is a scientifically based understanding of how people learn. Scientists and educators are now collaborating on studies of the human brain as it relates to learning with applications to disabilities and “Special Needs” students. There are specific practices emerging from brain research that teachers can use to enhance learning by all students.
In this article I want to share with you what research says
about brain-based teaching as it pertains to online
learning. With regards to the
educational environment there are many suggestions for appropriate
learning. The four suggestions are:
memory/retrieval, learning styles, increasing attentiveness, and social
emotional learning.
When it comes to online learning students will remember more
content if it’s moved from short term to long term memory. For example, content
can be learned through role plays, debates, video clips, and art or music.
Another technique to help students’ master material online is a process known
as “Chunking.” This is a strategy of grouping smaller chunks of seven, plus or
minus two chucks of information. Thus, that’s why we can easily remember things
such as our telephone number, social security card number, vehicle tags, and
zip codes.
Another online tip would be to take into account the several
different learning modalities. For instance, let’s take auditory learners.
Group discussions, audio/video animation clips, or voice-over lessons work
really well. Visual learners on the other hand, excel with the use of
PowerPoint slides, video clips, the use of color, bold lettering, pictures,
charts, symbols, and extra white space on a page. The kinesthetic/tactile learner learns best
through exploration, assembling and disassembling objects—online study can be
developed with lessons that include sketching, drawing, model building and the
like.
The opening and closing of an online lesson is the last bits
of information remembered. It’s suggested to begin a lesson with an interesting
quote from a famous person, a humorous video or story. For the closing of a
lesson create post-tests in the form of crossword puzzles, or develop word
searches, etc. Learning will “Stick” much better if you Incorporate
anticipation, surprise, fun, and excitement as you progress through the lesson.
Note: Interaction will enhance attentiveness distance
learning theory research advocates that interaction is an essential element of
successful online learning.
The Role of Emotion
Teachers need to establish early on that the learning
environment will be a safe place and that students will be free to challenge
ideas, facts, and voice opinions. Do away with the stress of failing the lesson
or course. Keep in constant contact with students, provide positive feedback
and give plenty of encouragement.
Leave a Comment
Post a Comment