In today’s fast-paced world, where information is abundant and learning is essential, it’s crucial to find effective methods to help children grasp concepts quickly and retain them for the long term. As parents, educators, and mentors, we play a vital role in shaping their learning journey. One powerful approach that we can leverage is neuroplasticity.
Understanding the Brain:
Before delving into the learning process, it’s important to grasp the basics of how the brain functions. The brain is a physical entity, housing billions of neurons that facilitate various cognitive processes such as logical reasoning, critical thinking, and calculation. When a child learns something new, these neurons are actively engaged, forming neural connections and pathways that contribute to the learning process.
The Learning Process:
The journey of learning begins with exposure to new information, whether through reading, classroom instruction, or other means. Once the child comprehends the concept, the next step is crucial: applying it independently. Encouraging children to tackle tasks on their own fosters self-reliance and activates neural pathways associated with problem-solving and skill acquisition.
5 Steps to Effective Learning:
- New Knowledge: When students encounter new information through textbooks, classroom instruction, or study materials, they should give full attention to understanding without having any pressure to memorise it.
- Attempt Independently: Then practise the new knowledge as per the guidance given teacher, book, website, video or any other mode. It is very important that if you cannot do the practice question/ exercise/ practical in first go, instead of seeking immediate solutions or assistance, encourage children to attempt tasks independently. Emphasise the importance of effort over correctness, as the process of trying stimulates neural activity and strengthens learning pathways. In nutshell, “your trying will bring new learning”
- Compare and Correct: After completing a task with utmost trying, children should compare their solutions with established answers or guidelines or advice from teacher. This step provides valuable feedback and insights into areas that require improvement, facilitating self-correction and deepening understanding.
- Reflect and Internalize: Take time to reflect on the learning process and identify lessons learned. Encourage children to consider how they can improve in future endeavours, fostering a growth mindset and instilling a sense of ownership over their learning journey. It will close all the neural connection which were trying to connect.
- The Power of Neuroplasticity: To enhance the effectiveness of learning, we can harness the principles of neuroplasticity. By incorporating brief periods of rest and relaxation, known as NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest), we can optimise the brain’s ability to consolidate and retain new information. During NSTIR, neural connections are reinforced, and learning becomes more ingrained, leading to improved retention and comprehension.
Applying Neuroplasticity in Practice:
Whether at home or in the classroom, integrating NSDR breaks into the learning routine can yield significant benefits. After engaging with new material, encourage children to take short breaks, close their eyes, and focus on deep breathing. This simple yet effective practice enhances neural efficiency, promotes deeper learning, and boosts overall cognitive function.
Practically, your relax yourself and you take 10-15 Deep Breath in (in hale oxygen) and have a slow breath out (exhale carbon dioxide). During that time you try to be thoughtless by focusing on your breath.
Conclusion:
Incorporating neuroplasticity principles into the learning process can revolutionise how children acquire and retain knowledge. By fostering independence, encouraging reflection, and leveraging the brain’s innate capacity for change, we empower children to become lifelong learners equipped for success in an ever-evolving world.
Share Your Experience:
Have you tried incorporating neuroplasticity techniques into your child’s learning routine? We’d love to hear about your experiences and insights. Share your thoughts in the comments below and join us in our mission to promote effective and empowering learning strategies.
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