J. Seth Farrow - Brain Portfolio Brain Basics Memory Learning & Intelligence Web Resources Go

Brain Basics Weighs about 3 lbs. Content: –Water (82%) –Fat (10%) –Protein (8%) Soft tissue - can be cut with a butter knife Folds maximize surface area - unfolds to the size of a newspaper 1 of 4

Brain Basics Makeup: –Glial cells Fibrous “Super-structure” of the brain –Neurons Connect with and transmit information to other cells Transmits information by means of an electrochemical reaction 2 of 4

The Neuron Source: “Neuroscience for Kids”, Go 3 of 4

Electric impulse travels from Cell body down the axon. Impulse triggers chemical neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters fire across the synaptic gap. Transmissions are picked up by dendrites of the next neuron. Electric impulse is triggered, process repeats. 4 of 4

Memory Incoming information must be ACTIVELY PROCESSED before it can be stored in LONG-TERM memory. Information can be stored in a number of different categories and contexts; successful teaching strategies involve two or more of them. 1 of 3

Memory Semantic –Content-based memory –Names, dates, symbols, abstract figures Episodic –Context-based memory –Information is related with the surrounding circumstances, events, locations, etc. 2 of 3

Memory Procedural –“Hands-on” learning –Involves physical skills, complex kinesthetic functions Automated –“Reflex” memory –Based on either a conditioned or emotional response to stimulus 3 of 3

Six Notions of the Brain, Learning, & Intelligence #1: Intelligence is a function of experience. –Hands-on experiences, etc., aid in active processing of information. #2: Emotions are the gatekeeper to learning. –Students will engage themselves in activities which they find to be emotionally satisfying. Source: William Armstrong, Ed.D., Graceland University Go 1 of 4

#3: Eight Intelligences, Not 1 or 2 –Gardner’s theory shows us the different ways in which humans perceive and process the world around them. Visual/Spatial Logical/Mathematical Kinesthetic Interpersonal Linguistic Intrapersonal Musical Naturalist 2 of 4

#4: The Brain is a pattern-seeking device. –When information or events are viewed in context, patterns often become clear. This, also, aids in active processing. #5: Programs are the basic units of behavior. –Behavior occurs in a sequence of steps or actions intended to achieve a certain goal. 3 of 4

#6: The impact of personality –Different heredity and environments will have an effect on the perceptions and learning styles of students Sense vs. Intuition Extroversion vs. Introversion Judgment vs. Perception 4 of 4

Brain Web Resources The Brain Store Scientific Learning Brains.org MSD Pike Training Resources Jensen Learning Corporation Go 1 of 2

Brain Web Resources 12 Principles of Brain-Based Teaching and Learning The Brain Connection Society for Neuroscience Neuroscience for Kids Caine Learning, LLC Go 2 of 2