The neuroscience of learning and development and its implications for inquiry

Abstract

We understand that providing students the ability to reflect on their learning experiences is key to development. Emerging neuroscience research illustrates that it takes at least 30 minutes of focused attention training for 8 weeks in a row to change certain portions of the structure of the brain. The portions of the brain that can change structure and therefore function include the emotional center, memory center, sensory perception areas, and the center for executive functions such as analytical reasoning, prioritizing, and decision-making, which may be critical for lasting learning and development. If we consider the space for reflection and this neuroscience research, how might we re-design our co-curricular education and evaluation systems?