Brain Development Flashcards
How does child brain development impact learning?
brain theory: genes provide the blueprint for brain architecture, but experiences shape the development of neural circuitry
Neuroplasticity
pre-frontal cortex parallels human cognitive development
links between working memory (short-term) planning and completing sequences of actions and inhibiting inappropriate responses
small children do not have reasoning of adults
brain not fully developed at birth
How does brain development influence teaching?
Bandora’s theory of modeling is supported by discovery of brain’s mirror neurons which play a role in empathy and learning by imitation
poor learning can be adjusted, planned and coordinated intervention makes a difference
Brain development
neural pathways
rapid growth then pruning
responsive caregiving
toxic stress, cortisol
learning
relatively permanent modification of pre-existing behaviors and understandings.
process by which an organism changes its behavior as a result of experiences
knowledge
tangible objects that can be captured - structured knowledge
human element of knowledge can’t be articulated, captured or stored - less structured knowledge
Teachers need understanding of
how children learn, how to facilitate learning, role of student, role of teacher, factors that influence learning
brain physical development
neurons: nerve cells
synapses: transition between two neurons
dendrites: structures on neurons that receive electrical message (excitatory, inhibitory)
initial brain development largely genetic (nature)
most dendrite growth (83%) occurs after baby is born
neurons develop rapidly before birth
at birth babies have most of their brain cells but connections are incomplete
between birth and 8 months synapses form rapidly
1 neuron can connect with 15,000 other neurons
0-3 months old synapses x20
neuron developments occurs from interaction btw neurons and environment
neurons, synapses developed don’t usually survive
pruning occurs in adolescence (little used synapses are eliminated)
continues to evolve
executive functioning of brain in prefrontal cortex matures last (mid 20s) - explains confusion, angst of adolescence
Cognitive and brain development
Piaget
Developmental stages of cognitive and moral development are consistent with development of central nervous system.
E.g. the prefrontal cortex (problem-solving, decision-making, judgement) continues to develop in early adulthood.
Socio-cultural and brain development
Vygotsky
Zone of Proximal Development
With help from adults or more capable peers, children can “grow their brains” through experience and accomplish more than they can on their own.
Brain development (early years)
prolific growth - 700 new synapses per second
slows down and prunes in adolescence (improve efficiency)
early experiences influence what’s reinforced
simple to complex connections: sensory > language > cognition (thinking)
responsive care giving and serve and return social interactions shape formation of neural circuitry
toxic stress derails healthy neural development
Primary function of brain
survival first
Medina brain is not interested in learning; interested in surviving
engineered to prevent extinction
to promote well educated child create environment of safety
Brain
not fixed and unchangeable
can heal itself - reorganize
new cells develop through life
new pathways can be developed - neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity
thoughts/actions change brain structure and function
neuronal highways can be strengthened through repeated and focused thought and repeated activities
almost everything a child does and experiences from birth involves building connections between the neurons
Supporting brain growth
real experiences
engages the senses in real time
easier in first years of life
Neurotransmitters
chemicals in the brain
CORTISOL - stress hormone > overload > heightened behavior - tantrum > releases cortisol > returns child to relaxed state
SEROTONIN, DOPAMINE, ENDORPHINS not easy for children to create own, need help with self-regulating emotions, moods, physical energy
