How the Brain Learns

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SAGE Publications, 2001 - Education - 305 pages
This book presents information to help teachers turn research on brain function into practical classroom activities and lessons, offering: brain facts; information on how the brain processes information; tips on maximizing retention; an information processing model that reflects new terminology regarding the memory systems; new research on how the brain learns motor skills; implications of the arts in learning; and an expanded list of primary sources for reviewing core research. After an introduction, there are eight chapters: (1) "Basic Brain Facts and Brain Development"; (2) "How the Brain Processes Information"; (3) "Memory, Retention, and Learning"; (4) "The Power of Transfer"; (5) "Brain Specialization and Learning"; (6) "The Brain and the Arts"; (7) "Thinking Skills and Learning"; and (8) "Putting it All Together: Planning for Today and Tomorrow." Each chapter includes a Practitioner's Corner, with activities that check for understanding of major concepts and research within the chapter or interpretations of how the research might translate into effective classroom strategies to improve teaching and learning. At the end of each chapter, a page called "Key Points to Ponder" offers an organizing tool for remembering important strategies, ideas, and resources. Notes which contain additional information, references, and resources are included. (SM)

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Contents

LIST OF PRACTITIONERS CORNERS
1
Basic Brain Facts and Brain Development
15
Chapter 1
18
Copyright

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About the author (2001)

David A. Sousa, EdD, is an international consultant in educational neuroscience and author of more than a dozen books that translate brain research into strategies for improving learning. He has presented to more than 200,000 educators across the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. He has taught high school chemistry and served in administrative positions, including superintendent of schools. He was an adjunct professor of education at Seton Hall University and a visiting lecturer at Rutgers University. Dr. Sousa has edited science books and published dozens of articles in leading journals. His books have been published in French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Korean, and several other languages. He is past president of the National Staff Development Council (now Learning Forward) and has received honorary degrees and awards for his commitment to research, professional development, and science education. He has appeared on NBC’s Today Show and National Public Radio to discuss his work with schools using brain research.

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