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Nature or Nurture?
Our behavior is a result of both genetic and
environmental influences. This interplay has
an enormous impact on our ability to think,
feel, perform, attain, retain, and learn
information. Wolfe (2010) states as we look
at the developing brain, one of the most
important concepts to understand is that of
neuroplasticity. Simply stated,
neuroplasticity means that the brain is
shaped not only by its inherited genetic code
but also by the environment (p. 72).
Neurotransmitters
Definition: A chemical released by neurons that crosses the
synapse and allows communication between neurons
Dopamine A neurotransmitter found in many areas of the
brain that has multiple functions depending on where it acts. It
is important for movement and thought to regulate emotional
responses.
Serotonin A neurotransmitter believed to play a role in
temperature regulation, sensory perception, mood, and sleep. A
number of antidepressant drugs target the brain serotonin
systems.
Acetylcholine A neurotransmitter found in the brain, spinal
cord, neuromuscular junction, and autonomic nervous system.
Environmental Factors
The influence of environment begins since the time of
the conception of the child in the womb of the mother.
Fetus in the womb is influenced by mother's mental,
physical and emotional conditions.
The external environment starts from the time of birth of
the child. The external environment refers to the
surroundings which prevail in home, school and locality.
At these places the child interacts with other members of
the family, teachers' classmates or peers and neighbors.
He establishes relationship with them.
Neurochemical/Genetic Factors
There are many theories that there may be a genetic
link through generations with both learning disabilities
and genius intelligence.
Cognitive theory the brain is like a computer with either
defective parts, ei learning disabilities, or extra parts, ei
exceptional intellect. Genetically these parts are passed
down from their parents to their children.
Vygotsky's theory a childs mid was developed through
their parents behavior through interaction
It is very common for a child who has high intellect or
learning disabilities to have a parent or both parents being
the main factor of how they learn
Neurochemical/Genetic Factors on
Learning and Neuroplasticity
As we continue to age and we work the same job day after day
some theories say the pruning process can continue.
As we age we must exercise our brain to keep it running at top
notch as much as we pay attention to our body.
Learning at Home
Parents are the first in line when it comes to their
childrens education. Schools are not 100% responsible
for a child succeeding or failing. At a young age a child is
continuously learning, asking question, and are always
very curious about the world they live in.
Good nights sleep helps the brain be more alert in class
Limited exposure to technology encourages imagination
Encourage sports movement keeps the body healthy
Supply a well balanced diet nutrients feed the brain
References
ASIYAI, R. (2014). STUDENTS' PERCEPTION OF THE
CONDITION OF THEIR CLASSROOM PHYSICAL
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ITS IMPACT ON THEIR
LEARNING AND MOTIVATION. College Student Journal,
48(4), 716-726.
Fischer , K. W., Immordino-Yang, M. H., & , (2008). The
Jossey-Bass reader on the brain and learning. (1st ed.).
San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Jensen, E. (2008). Brain-based learning: The new
paradigm of teaching (2nd Ed). California: Corwin Press.
Wolfe, P. (2010). Brain matters: Translating research
into classroom practice. (2nd ed.). Alexandria,VA:
Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development.