Thinking Maps Brings Neuroscience into the Classroom

Thinking Maps, Inc. has released a new white paper that outlines six critical elements of brain-based teaching and learning. The Building Blocks of Brain-Based Learning: The Research Base for Thinking Maps brings together foundational and recent research in neuroscience and provides practical insights into learning for educators.

"Brain-based learning" is a common buzzword in education, but there has been little agreement on what that actually means in the classroom. The new research document from Thinking Maps explores what happens in the brain when learning takes place and how educators can tap into the brain's natural preferences and processes to make learning more effective. It covers:

• How the brain processes, filters, stores, and retrieves information
• Why it's important to use consistent, coordinated teaching and learning strategies that activate the brain on multiple levels
• How Thinking Maps aligns to our brains' natural preferences and processes

Some of the brain-based strategies that the paper explores include the use of visuals, pattern seeking, automaticity, activating key cognitive processes, the role of emotion and meaning, and stimulating high-order thinking. The paper also discusses the concept of neuroplasticity and the brain's ability to change itself in response to new stimuli and ideas.

Thinking Maps was built on research in neuroscience and cognition in order to maximize learning for all students. The eight Maps, which connect to core cognitive processes, build on six key insights in neuroscience to help students encode, retain, recall, and connect information more easily. Using Thinking Maps has been shown to improve learning outcomes for students of all backgrounds and ability levels.

Thinking Maps is rolling out the new research paper with a webinar on [DATE]. Educators interested in learning more about the brain research behind Thinking Maps can download the white paper from [LINK].