Outlines research findings on enriched environment investigations on the development of the brain's neocortex. Although the research has been conducted on animal brains, researchers expect to find related patterns in plasticity in humans. The research is important to educators as it challenges them to define, create, and maintain an emotionally…

Describes a study that examined whether children respond differently when they speak and write about pictures as a result of participating in a visual literacy program. Fifth graders participating in such a program were asked to examine two books and choose one as a Caldecott winner, giving reasons for their choices. (nine references) (CLB)