Learners Science Flashcards
Help study
What is Neurodevelopment?
Brains growth and changes as we learn influenced by early experiences that create neural connections.
what is myelination
Brain wraps its neural connections to increase speed and efficiency
Pruning
Removes unused neural connections to make space for stronger and efficient pathways
What are the key areas of the brain and their functions?
Brainstem: Basic functions like breathing and heart rate.
Limbic System: Emotions, Memory and decision-making.
Cerebellum: Balanace and Coordination.
Cerebrum: Higher functions like reasoning and problem solving.
Prefrontal Cortex; Desision making and impulse control and emotional regulation.
How does the prefrontal cortex develop during school years?
Elementry school: Rapid Growth in impulse control and decision-making.
Middle School-Improved planning and organization but emotional conflicts.
High School- Better critical thinking and goal-setting. Still some impulse control issues.
What is the process of learning?
Encoding-Sensory input is transformed into something the brain can store.
Storage- Retaining the encoded info.
Retrieval- Accessing stored information when needed.
What are effective learning strategies?
Retrieval Practice- Actively recalling info.
Spacing- Studying over time rather than cramming.
Interleaving- Mixing topics during study.
Feedback-Driven Meatcognition- Adjusting strategies based on feedback.
Desirable Difficulty- Adding Challenges to increase engagement and retention.
What are executive functions in learning?
Planning- Breaking tasks into steps and setting goals.
Working memory- Holding information while completing tasks.
Self-Regulation- Managing emotions, focus, and impulses.
Organization- Managing assignments and materials.
Flexibility- Adapting to changes or problems.
What are some common myths about learning?
Cramming- only helps in short-term memory and increases stress.
Multitasking- reduces performance and memory as the brain can’t multitask effectively.
What is neuroplasticity?
Ability to change and adapt throughout life based on experiences.
What is the myth of normal?
There is no single normal brain; everyone’s brain is uniquely shaped by genetics and experiences.
What is the difference between cognitive styles and learning styles?
Cognitive- how a person thinks problem-solves and remembers.
Learning styles- A preference for how someone learns. like auditory and visual, butng evidence that matches teaching there’s no stro to learning styles.
What is the myth of cognitive rigidity?
Learning becomes harder with age; in reality, the brain remains flexible and adaptable throughout life due to neuroplasticity.
Why is the brain not a computer?
The brain is more complex than a computer it involves emotions and bodily experiences
what is the embodied mind?
Thinking is influenced by our bodies and environments, meaning physical activity and bodily sensations can help learning.
What impact do physical health and movement have on learning?
Physical health (sleep, exercise) affects learning, lack of sleep can impair memory and focus and physical activity boosts creativity and focus.
What is Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs?
States that basic needs (like safety, food, and sleep) must be met before higher level learning can occur.
What is the main idea of behaviorism?
Learning occurs through reinforcement and punishment. (Pavlov, Skinner, Watson)
What is cognitivism?
Learning is an active process where students build on prior knowledge. ( Piaget, Vygotsky.)
What is constructivism?
Learners activiely construct their own understanding. ( Piaget, Bruner.)
What is social Learning Theory?
Learning happens by observing others (Bandura)
What are Piaget’s four stages of cognitive development?
Sensorimotor (0-2) Learning through senses & actions
Preoperational(2-7) Symbolic thinking, egocentrism.
Concrete Operational(7-11) Logical thinking, conservation.
Formal Operational(12+) Abstract and hypothetical thinking.
What is Vygotsky’s Sone of Prozimal Development (ZPD)
The difference between what a learner can do independently vs. with guidance.
What is Erikson’s stage of industry vs Inferiotity?
Elementary-aged children develop a sense of competence or feel inferior.
