Challenges in Teaching

1. Multicultural classrooms
2. Learner-centered teaching
3. Multi-grade classes
4. ICT integration
5. Brain-based education

Brain-based learning is essentially lesson plans and teaching methods that reflect the
findings of how the brain learns best. Brain-based learning is, “a paradigm of learning
which addresses student learning and learning outcomes from the point of view of the
human brain.” Teachers use research and implement teaching methods that have been
designed specifically for the best retention and growth results.

Methods for brain-based learning can be something as simple as just getting the students
out of their chairs and walking around the classroom to activate brain stimulation. Many
activities in the arts like listening to music or drawing can also be very effective ways to
implement brain-based learning.

Brain-based learning is not one size fits all. Different brain-based learning activities work
better for different students. Some teachers might worry that brain-based learning won’t
work in their classroom because they can’t do an assessment of each student to know
what activity is best for them as an individual. Marcia emphasizes that there is no need for
any pre-assessment of your students, just observe students as the school year begins to
pick up on their habits or interests. Much of the brain research has been general and fits
the needs for basic brain stimulation of the human being.

Options of Methods

1. Drawing/art
After reading an excerpt from a book or article, teachers can have students draw how that
part of the text made them feel or connect colors to certain emotions throughout the text.

2. Discussion
Having a class discussion not only helps with social behavior but teaches students how to
be respectful and accurately create and support an argument.

3. Technology
Technology can be used in many different creative ways. A common way to incorporate
technology into brain-based learning is to have students participate in partial online
lessons to create independence and curiosity within a student.

4. Movement
Take a movement minute! Get students up out of their seats and get the blood pumping to
their brain to enhance focus and overall mood.

5. Storytelling
Storytelling helps students to tap into their creative and imaginative side. Have students
write in a journal every day for 30 mins to enhance writing skills and creativity.
6. Making/listening to music
Music can be a significant factor in creativity, memory, behavior, and learning. Certain
types of music stimulate different parts of the brain that can be beneficial during learning.

6. Multiple intelligences

7. Children with special needs