Information Processing In The Brain

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The brain is an organ that has an abundance of functions. The functions thrive with the help of neurons. Neurons are parts of the brain that send messages by a chemical called neurotrophins. According to research, the brain will develop with extrinsic and intrinsic factors. This refers to the experiences a person has external from their body, and what might be happening within the body. In order for neurological functions to develop, a person must engage in new experiences and learn new information. The new information obtained will create a connection between neurons and strengthen functions (Chara, 2021).

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Presenter Notes Slide 4

As previously mentioned, neurons are the parts of the brain that controls how messages are sent and connected to other areas of the body. A neuron is made up of four parts; the soma, dendrites, axon, and axon terminals. The soma is the body of the neuron. The cell body hold information within and keeps the structure of the cell. The dendrites are "wire-like" structures that take in the chemical message. The axon is a "tube-like" structure that allows the message to travel to the end of the neuron. The axon terminal is the area that releases the neurotrasmitter. As the message travels through the neurons, neurotransmitters pass over a space between the neurons to continue the communication. The gap that allows for the communication to continue is called the synapse ("Neuroplasticity: Learning physically changes the brain," 2010).

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The brain allows for us to adapt to different situations and environments. The brain is a flexible organ, which means it can be altered. We are learning new information and engaging in new situations that we will need to adapt to. Neuroplasticity allows neurons to change their form to make new connections. Once information is absorbed, it becomes a memory that can be used again. Without neuroplasticity, new information and situations would not be stored (Jensen & McConchie, 2020).

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Brain development and learning can be in relation to one another. As the brain develops, it expands its connections regarding the environment and situations that the person is associated with. Two functions of the brain that will affect learning are executive function and mirror neurons. Executive function is important because it is in control of regulating behavior/emotions, flexibility, and focusing skills. Mirror neurons also contribute to learning. Mirror neurons are sensory motor cells. These cells allow an individual to engage in an action that they may have seen another person perform. Those who display developed mirror neurons, can engage in imitating another person (Jensen & McConchie, 2020).

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In the classroom there are brain functions that affect learning. Learning is happening each and everyday, constantly making new connections. Executive function and mirror neurons are two functions that play a role in learning. Without executive function, students would not be able to self-regulate, or be flexible. There may be triggers that create a negative atmosphere for the student. That negative feeling may last the day and ultimately having the student complete no assignments. With the ability to self-regulate, the student can make rational decisions and behavior in the way that will benefit their learning. Mirror neurons are a vital function for learning. Mirror neurons are responsible for imitation. Students thrive when they can visualize a model of the current information. Students thrive with appropriate brain functions that are associated with learning (Jensen & McConchie, 2020).

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When identifying what part of our brain helps us learn and store information, it is important to also note that there are strategies to use in the classroom to become successful learners. One of those strategies is exercise. Exercise creates a production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BNDF. This is a protein of the brain that allows for an increase in cognitive function. Looking further into research it also states that "chunking" information is an important way for students to separate materials into smaller sections to ensure a basic understanding of material. This strategy provides a foundation for future learning, and a connection with previous "chunks" of information. Lastly, repetition to memory allows students to combine short-term knowledge with long-term storage. To recall information it is best for study habits to be spaced out and placed into shorter time spans. "Studying for 20 minutes a day for three days is better than studying for 60 min­utes on a single day" (Ryan, 2017).