Recent neuropathology studies identify hypoxia as the main cause of perinatal cerebral damage. Cerebral lesions present at birth, with transition to chronic scar lesions, are correlated to mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and minimal brain dysfunction. Gestation age and severity of hypoxic exposure essentially determine the cerebral…

A review of studies into the neurological aspects of reading disabilities indicates that two positions have been taken with regard to the brain and reading: (1) language skills are generally considered to be the function of the left hemisphere of the brain; and (2) very poor reading may be related to bilateral spatial processing for both boys and…

Describes the results of detailed neuropsychological testing done before and during drug-induced remission of depressive illness in 11 children (ages 6-13 years), demonstrating significant improvement in cognitive function, especially that of the right hemisphere and frontal lobes. (Author/SJL)

The study involving 63 children (6 to 8 years old) compared the effects of two reading programs, the Palo Alto Reading Program and DISTAR, on primary grade children with reading problems. Results indicated that use of an operant reading program (DISTAR) was more effective than the Palo Alto program. (SBH)

A cognitive-science revolution, reminiscent of Dewey's Progressive Education Movement, will profoundly affect future educational policy and practice. A comprehensive brain theory will emerge out of Darwin's discoveries about natural selection as a scientific explanation for biodiversity, Einstein's theoretical reconceptualization of…

Presents a tentative cognitive-psychological model of language attrition, which draws on information from studies in second language attrition, neurobiology and psychology. Notes that this model is presented to demonstrate that a model based on consideration of the brain has the potential of providing a plausible account of the process of language…

Brain researchers developed a three-tier model to treat reading problems, involving screening for early intervention, modifying regular instruction and monitoring student progress, and diagnosing and treating referred children. In a pilot of the model, 64 percent of 215 participating students needed no further intervention beyond tier 2. In…

Explores different movements in educational psychology that have affected music education since the 1950s: (1) behaviorism; (2) cognitivism; (3) humanism; and (4) a socio-biological model. Describes each of the four schools of thought in detail as they related to music education. (CMK)

Integrated treatment methods of neuropsychological and cognitive origin were evaluated with 80 Dutch children (ages 6-15) with severe dyslexia. Treatment with flash cards, which exercised automatic letter-sound conversions, had a robust and slight effect in preclinical and clinical phases respectively, whereas hemisphere stimulation produced…

In 18 years, over 260,000 Chinese students have left China to study abroad, and only about one-third have returned. Their flight is compounding the devastation of China's knowledge and talent pool that began with Mao Ze-dong. China is encouraging study abroad, to rectify the loss of a generation of academics, and is most interested in science and…

Examines whether active instruction in music enhances preschool and elementary school student performance on spatial tasks. Reports that music enhances the spatial-temporal performance of children during and up to two years following the instruction and that the effect is moderate and consistent. Includes references. (CMK)

Giftedness is a multi-dimensional phenomenon, and assessment should be concerned with the kinds of giftedness an individual exhibits. The Structure of Intellect (SOI) tests allow the identification of academic and creative giftedness. The SOI theory can also be used in partnership with brain research to provide a theory-based test of brain…

Discussion of right brain versus left brain skills focuses on a study that compared the performances of computer science students, professional programers, and bank employees on eight tests of brain function. Results are reported which suggest that the cognitive profile may be an important indicator for success in certain occupations. (16…

Examines the role of the brain in conceptualizing and understanding intrapersonal communication. Drawing on research and theory from several disciplines, develops a communicative perspective on intrapersonal communication, focusing on specific interhemispheric and intermodular processes inherent in intrapersonal communication. Discusses…

This study reports clinical characteristics of developmental right-hemisphere syndrome, a nonverbal learning disability, in 20 children (mean age 9.5 years) who also manifested attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, graphomotor problems, and slow performance. Diagnostic criteria included emotional and interpersonal difficulties, paralinguistic…