Brain Based Learning
According to Eric Jensen the author of, Teaching with the Brain in Mind, there are 7 critical factors in the learning process that must be met to ensure an effective learning environment for each student. These factors include engagement, repetition, input quantity, coherence, timing, error correction, and emotional states. When we teach with these factors in mind we are ensuring all brain functions are being met and students are able to learn.
- Engagement- This is where you grab the attention of the students so that they comprehend the content that is about to be taught. Examples are, fun hands on activity, song or dance, something that gets the students involved and excited to learn.
- Repetition- This is where the students are able to ensure the content they are learning is sticking and they are comprehending the information they are giving.
- Input Quantity- This is how the content that is being taught is chunked together. Brains can only take in so much new information at a time, especially when they are still growing.
- Coherence- This is where new knowledge is connected to students prior knowledge, making it more meaningful to the students.
- Timing- This is where the teacher is able to provide her students with the proper activities at the proper time of the day so students are not overloaded.
- Error Correction- This is where teachers are able to provide feedback to her students when they make mistakes. It is also important to let students know mistakes are critical to the learning process and help us grow.
- Emotional States- This is one of the most important factors we need to keep in mind. Students put their emotions into what they are learning. Students need to feel safe and comfortable to experience an effective learning process.
What is Differentiation?
Differentiation is tailoring to each child as an individual and making sure their needs are met in a way they are able to learn at an equal opportunity as their peers. Below I have added a few graphics that demonstrate ways to differentiate in the classroom as well as, what it IS and what it is NOT!