The human brain, especially during adolescence, undergoes significant development and is constantly molded by experiences. Think of the first 25 years of a human life as a “construction site” where experiences continuously shape neural pathways. This period of high neuroplasticity presents a unique opportunity for learning and development.

Teenagers are in a good position to gain from cutting-edge teaching techniques because of their natural brain plasticity during the school years. In the past, schools frequently categorized students into inflexible categories like “science” or “commerce.” However, integrated learning—which blends several disciplines—is becoming more and more popular among modern teachers. This is mainly because brain-based learning has numerous benefits like higher academic performance, academic progression, long-term memory, classroom cooperation, and more. This all-encompassing method promotes greater comprehension and better equips students for their future employment.

So, how can teachers leverage this knowledge of brain development? By incorporating strategies that cater to this heightened neuroplasticity, teachers can create a more engaging and effective learning environment for teenagers. In the next section, we’ll explore some specific techniques to enhance the teaching experience for this age group.

How to Limit The Syllabus & Activate Brain-based Learning?

Reducing the scope of the curriculum may benefit and harm teachers and students in different ways:

Stronger understanding: Students can gain a deeper grasp of the subject matter by concentrating on fewer issues in more detail. This is especially advantageous for teens who are still working on their critical thinking abilities.

Improved Student Engagement: Teachers may foster a more dynamic and engaging learning environment by customizing the curriculum to the needs and interests of their students. This is especially beneficial for teens, who are more inclined to engage in class when they are interested in the material.

Decreased Burnout: By enabling teachers to concentrate on fewer subjects and better handle their workload, a smaller syllabus can help them experience less burnout, which is crucial for preserving their health and careers.

Educational Neuroscience As a Concept – How Does Brain-based Learning Help?

Education aims to develop the brain. Even as the brain matures, education is known to have an impact on brain growth and health. The dynamics of the brain and education can be better understood to help educators and learners of all ages. Below are points on how to go beyond the syllabus and activate the brain-based learning:

Divide up the learning process: Teenagers are open to new ideas and even though many teachers already know this, it still has to be said. The best thing that you as a teacher can do is not make your lessons mundane. Break lessons down into manageable chunks that fall into introduction, practice, and review phases before moving on to a new subject or topic. Students learn best when they can assimilate new ideas bit by bit.

Make content mapping your go-to: The process of creating a web of comprehension by joining disparate components of a topic or unit is known as concept mapping. For instance, in a unit on cell structure, students can make a list of all the things they’ve learned about each part of a cell and then use visual aids to demonstrate how the parts relate to one another. 

Keep it real: Allow your students to apply what they have learned outside of the classroom whenever you can. While field excursions are a well-known example of experiential learning, you can also use simple activities like taking your students for a stroll around campus to discuss weather patterns or photosynthesis to help them comprehend abstract ideas. 

When creating their brain-based lesson plans, teachers can use the following advanced strategies:

• Integrate spoken and written content to improve learning retention.
• Give priority to activities that are practical, imaginative, impactful emotionally, and hands-on.
• Prioritize instruction and exercises that foster critical thinking in pupils over memorization.
• Provide students with relatable real-world examples of classes and projects.

Final Thoughts 

Understanding how the brain develops can help students grow both academically and personally by improving their self-identity, mental capacity, and comprehension of science and the humanities. After all, brain knowledge is essentially brainpower. The study of educational neuroscience holds great promise for educating students about their brains and helping them learn in ways that are conducive to lifelong learning.

At Oasis International, we take great pride in contributing to the growth and development of our students not just academically, but also personally. The purpose of our teachers is to nurture responsible individuals who will contribute positively, and connect them with the world as responsive global citizens. Get in touch with us today, and we promise your child a better future.