"Brain Rule" Friendly Classrooms
In , John Medina explained general rules or principles that have been studied by scientists regarding how our brains function. One Brain Rule is "Stress".
effects our ability to learn for the most part. Especially if there are no breaks in between the stressful situations, Dr. Start Shanker emphasizes the importance of kids having the chance to recharge their minds and bodies. These two systems need a chance to regain energy before facing the next difficult task. (See video at 20:00 minutes) This page outlines some ways to "de-stress" in the classroom.
Ways to physcially organizing your classroom:
Too much stimulus can be overwhelming - keep classrooms organized and neat so students will be able to focus on their tasks instead of the decor around them.
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Ways to structurally organize your classroom:
Introduce "quiet" corners - some kids need time to calm down and settle their mind and body in order to focus. Self- regulation can be learned and practiced in these designated places where students feel safe to take a couple minutes to themselves.
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Also make time in class for students to get up and move around if they wish, exercise helps with stress levels, which will in turn help with focusing and aid in learning.
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Tips for a teacher: Reduce demands on kids, plan lessons that the students will have time to complete in the classroom so that they don't have very much homework during exam period week
York University Philosopher Stuart Shanker on Self-Regulation
Video on Stress Brain rule
Other resources http://www.self-regulation.ca/uploads/5/6/2/6/56264915/encouraging_self_regulated_learning_in_the_classroom.pdf
Other resources http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/stress-management/effect-of-stress-on-the-brain.htm
