Presents a neurobiologically inspired model of one aspect of adult second language acquisition: procedural linguistic skill acquisition. Notes that the proposed model crucially involves the neural circuitry of the neocerebellum, a brain structure implicated in higher cognitive and, potentially, linguistic functions. (69 references) (Author/CK)

Summarizes research findings related to brain maturation during the adolescent years and highlights implications for the middle level educator, focusing on the types of classroom activities most compatible with attention and memory. Examines possible gender differences in how adolescents learn, the effects of stress on the brain, and implications…

Focuses on the three areas of concern related to integrated instruction: (1) theoretical concerns; (2) curricular concerns; and (3) instructional concerns. Believes that another concern that should be taken into account, when using integrated instruction, is the preservation of quality of each individual discipline. (CMK)

Describes a lesson in which instruction is initiated through the right cerebral hemisphere by using visualizations as concrete aids to learning. Explanations include a hand model which is used to illustrate the dynamics of guard cell activity of stomates and a paper folding model to show increase in surface area. (RT)

This study investigated the relationship between hemispherecity and college major in 275 undergraduate students. Results suggested that humanities majors prefer a diffuse divergent thinking style. Natural science and social science majors prefer an integrated or left model of intellectual functioning, though social science majors also preferred a…

The predictive power of the short-form Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale of P. Satz and S. Mogel to provide equivalent information about IQ scores and age-corrected scale scores was not differentially affected by the side of the lesion for 63 patients with brain tumors. (SLD)

The systematic siphoning of talented individuals from developing nations, criticized in the years after World War II, has returned. A shrinking global community and changing patterns of trade and development have made the issues involved much more complex. Social, economic, ethical, and political obligations accompany this expanded international…

Relationships among the scales of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator and the Human Information Processing Survey revealed in a study by S. C. Shiflett (1989) were reinvestigated in a study involving 554 college students (270 males and 284 females). One significant gender difference among the correlations was found. (SLD)

Reviews 5 models of learning or cognitive styles and the concept of brain hemispheric functions. Discusses the right hemisphere dominant learning style of many Native American children. Presents points to consider when modifying curricula or designing a reading program aimed at all learners. Contains 19 references. (SV)

Outlines the preferred learning styles of students studying second languages, offering suggestions for their application in second-language classrooms. The paper describes the right-brain/left-brain theory and how the two brain hemispheres are involved in learning; presents four classroom strategies (diversification, contextualization,…

Port Washington-Saukville (Wisconsin) School District created the Bright Beginnings Committee to identify effective teaching strategies to engage all students in relevant learning. Brain-based strategies include use of movement, music, metaphors, personal stories, humor, color, brainstorming, prime teaching time, and project demonstration. (11…

Many midcareer academics are leaving Canadian colleges and universities for academic positions in the United States, where higher pay, budget flexibility, and academic communities are attractive. Canadian university leaders say the loss of such scholars is a brain drain the country can ill afford. In addition, Canadian universities face…

Readiness to learn is a constant state. Two critical aspects of early childhood provide parents sufficient understanding of their child's development: attachment and brain development. Children develop attachments to caregivers but need consistent parental care and love. Human brains continue to quickly grow during the first two years of life.…

Reviews a study conducted at the University of Plymouth (United Kingdom) to establish the psychological basis for user responses to digital videoconferencing. Discusses possible predictor variables, including left and right brain laterality and factors of age and gender; measurement of behavioral and affective responses in distance learners;…

Although memory researchers differ in exactly how they view the divisions of memory, there are numerous distinct types. One critical dimension in which memories differ is how long they last. Outlines various types of memories including long-term, short-term (i.e., working), and procedural memory, and discusses brain research that has led to…