Introduction to Brain-Compatible Learning

"As an introduction to brain-compatible learning, this book highlights some important findings of recent brain research in an easy-to-read manner." —Andrea F. Rosenblatt, Associate Professor, Barry University Harness the transformative power of brain-based learning! Thoroughly updated and revised, this best-selling book by brain expert Eric Jensen explores the key features of brain-based teaching and the most recent research on how the brain learns. Educators will learn about the parts of the brain, what constitutes solid brain research, the differences between boys' and girls' brains, and what types of activities can build retention. The author presents a reader-friendly text with clear, understandable artwork to reinforce the concepts of brain-based learning. Also included are brain-compatible activities to enhance readers' retention, a complete brain glossary, and a section on the importance of action research. This easy-to-read book is ideal for educators new to the concepts of brain-compatible learning and is organized into three simple, practical units, covering: Background information to provide educators with a solid foundation in brain research Seven principles of teaching based on essential brain concepts Next steps to put the research and principles into practice For both novice and veteran educators, this must-have guide provides an opportunity to make a positive, significant, and lasting difference in the way all students learn!

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgments About the Author Part I. Background You Need Introduction What Is Brain-Compatible Learning? The Old and New of It When Brain Research Is Applied to the Classroom, Everything Will Change Change Can Be Easy We′re Not in Kansas Anymore Where′s the Proof? Tools for Exploring the Brain Ten Reasons to Care About the Research? The Evolution of Brain Models Be a Brain-Smart Consumer: Recognizing Good Research Action or Theory: Who Wants to Read All That Research? Excellent Sources of Research Fun Factoids on the Brain What′s in the Human Brain Brain Teaser The Brain Divided The Brain Connected Brain Geography Brain "Cell"ebration: Far-out Facts About Brain Cells Learning Happens... But How? Are Today′s Kids Different? Boys′ and Girls′ Brain Differences Learning Disabilities: Different Brains The Cranial Soup Bowl: Understanding the Chemicals in Our Brains Part II. The Foundation for Teaching Is Principles, Not Strategies What Are the Principles? Principle 1: The Principle of Change: Brain Is Dynamic, Not Fixed Implications for Educators Principle 2: The Principle of Variety: All Brains Are Unique Implications for Educators Principle 3: The Principle of Maturation: Developmental Sensitivity Implications for Educators Principle 4: The Principle of Culture: We Have a "Social Brain" Implications for Educators Principle 5: The Principle of Connectivity: The Brain Is an Integrated "System of Systems" Implications for Educators Principle 6: The Principle of Memory Malleability Implications for Educators Principle 7: The Principle of Resource Consumption Necessity for Processing Part III. So What; Now What? Asking Big Questions: What′s in a Brain-Compatible Curriculum? Brain-Compatible Test-Taking Success Strategies Systemic Change: The Next Level Big Picture Analysis: Transformation Happens Action Research Makes a Difference The Learning Community What′s Next? Appendix A: Brain-Smart Resources and Support Appendix B: Glossary of Brain Terminology References Index