What Does a Brain-Based Teacher Do?

A brain compatible teacher teaches with the brain in mind.

This educator understands the principles and uses strategies in a

purposeful way. This path is all about an educator who understands

the reasoning behind their teaching. It is also one who stays

constantly updated through continuous professional development.

The theory behind brain-based education

Brain-based education aims to improve and accelerate the learning

process by using the science behind learning to select a curriculum

and form of delivery for each group of students. When adopting this

method, educators must forget established conventions.

They must also leave behind assumptions about learning and

previous practices. Instead, they must look to the most recent

cognitive science discoveries as inspiration for their future lesson delivery.

• A healthy body promotes a healthy mind. ...
• Emotions are key to memory, meaning, and attention. ...
• Interaction with others benefits brain development. ...

• Teaching each other boosts memory. ...
• Memory improves through practice. ...
• Avoid long lectures. ...
• Make it meaningful.

How can brain-based learning take shape in the

classroom?

With such a wide range of scientific findings, it’s clear that brain-based learning can take several forms. Schools and individual teachers can choose the best approach to facilitate learning for their students. For example, student stress could be reduced by playing calming music or arranging regular physical activities.

Beanbag chairs or couches could replace traditional seating in studying and reading areas. A school wide promotion could encourage students to eat a healthier diet or to engage in more exercise, two factors that improve brain health.

Does brain-based learning work?

At present, educational neuroscience is an emerging field. Cognitive science technologies and methods are still under development and are only starting to be tested in the classroom. The recent findings are interesting and show a lot of potential for future educational programs.

It is important to remember, however, that theories are still evolving. It can be all too easy to misinterpret scientific evidence. Those who do so run the risk of adopting educational practices that have dubious value.