We will look at explanations from brain science about where profanity is processed and stored in the brain, to what extent we can control our production of expletives, and the emotional causes and effects of the use of profanity. We will then turn our attention to our role as educators and discuss whether we should broach this topic with students when they are bound to come across it and what...
The benefits of reading aloud have been thoroughly examined and supported by research (Anderson et al., 2003; Isik, 2016; Phillips, 2000; Shickedanz & Collins, 2012; Suggate et al., 2013). Reading aloud is regarded as a positive foundation for children's lives and is indicative of academic and social success (Gurdon, 2019). This case study delves into the cognitive processes of children while...
In tertiary English language education in Japan, the pursuit of academic excellence often overshadows critical emotional and relational factors for effective learning. Our ongoing research delves into the complexities faced by non-national scholar-practitioner faculty members in Japan, focusing on primary insights into well-being and support. Our collaborative model integrates expertise in...
Have you ever wondered how the content you’re teaching in class makes its way into your students’ brains? Well, that journey begins from their eyes and ears, which send information to their Sensory Memory. From there, the salient bit of sensory input–ideally that new content being taught–makes its way to a student’s Working Memory. After a couple of minutes, that new information finishes its...
Supported by research findings, the Brain-friendly Study Skills workshop proposes a bottom-up and health-conscious approach to enhance learning productivity for you and your students. Bottom-up in order to work on learning problems at the root causes, and health-conscious because, on top of the obvious health benefit to be expected, healthy lifestyles are often more productive. The workshop...
We now have an understanding of how the brain does language. Embodiment is the key, meaning that almost all meaning comes from the way your brain records experiences as sensory routines. Language too is stored in motor-sensory models. If you hear the expression coffee-colored dog, you not only activate sensory routines for the sight and smell of a dog, but for coffee too, and more. This view...
Focusing solely on academic achievement in teaching can lead to missing out on important emotional and relational factors that significantly impact learning. These factors are always present in the classroom and are crucial to students' progress. How educators engage with students can affect the neurological and human connections that influence teaching, which can either facilitate or impede...
It can be easy for teachers to assume that if they have the correct method, correct approach, and motivated students that learning will take place. However, even with all these things in place, sometimes the most dedicated of learners may show signs of demotivation or slow progress. The core of this problem may be because of both hard-wired cognitive limitations common to all learners and...
Navigating the intricate landscape of motivation in English language learning, cultivating a positive perception emerges as a fundamental factor. An exploration of this interplay through the dopaminergic system highlights that positive reinforcement not only activates neural pathways but also instigates behavioral adjustments and facilitates memory formation. Conversely, a lack of perceived...
Teachers generally devote themselves to various important roles that predominantly focus on student learning. All too often, students we observe show evidence of recurring self-defeating lifestyle habits that inhibit learning and long-term goal achievement. Essentially, sleepy and distracted students are less likely to effectively pay attention and remember, which are the two key factors for...
How much are you sleeping each night? How about your students? Probably not enough, if you live in Japan, which ranks among the most sleep-deprived societies in the world. School schedules, after-school activities, commuting times, homework, and screen time can all contribute towards students’ (and teachers’) lack of sleep. Students face additional obstacles towards good sleep with the...
In tertiary English language education in Japan, the pursuit of academic excellence often overshadows critical emotional and relational factors for effective learning. Our ongoing research delves into the complexities faced by non-national scholar-practitioner faculty members in Japan, focusing on primary insights into well-being and support. Our collaborative model integrates expertise in...
