The Role of Brain Functioning in Learning: Unraveling the Neurological Mechanisms

The human brain, specifically the cerebrum, plays a pivotal role in the learning process. As the largest and most complex part of the brain, the cerebrum initiates and coordinates movements, while allowing for thinking, judgment, reasoning, and even dreaming. This complex interplay of functions makes the cerebrum a vital component in how we learn.

Key Findings and Neurological Insights

Recent research published in the British Journal of Psychology, particularly in a series of papers by Sheckley and Bell, provides valuable insights into the neurological mechanisms involved in learning. These findings, based on hundreds of MRI scans, detail how the formation and linkage of dendrite networks are crucial elements in the learning process. Dendrites, as the fine branches of neurons, are critical for receiving information and transmitting it to the cell body. Understanding these networks is key to unlocking how the brain facilitates learning.

The Spiritual-Physical Duality: A Unique Perspective on Learning

This unique perspective on brain function and learning involves viewing the human being as a composite of a spiritual and a physical entity. According to this view, the spiritual being is responsible for all human thought, rationality, ethics, morality, and creativity. It is this spiritual entity that actually learns and perceives a wide array of human experiences. The physical brain, while important, is merely a tool used by this spiritual being.

The cerebrum on each side of the brain hosts areas where the spiritual being can focus emotions, causing physical actions or sending data in the form of mental images. The being can perceive numerous human perceptions, from basic sensations to more complex consciousness levels, using units of awareness known as attention units. These units allow for the formation of mental images and direct perception without the need for nerves.

Learning and the Role of Language

Language plays a significant role in the learning process. The being, which is the true learner, uses words as units of understanding. Subjects are groups of related understandings, and not knowing a particular word can severely impact a student's ability to learn. This is because the brain records experiences as mental images, which it sends to the being based on emotional triggers.

A fascinating study from 1964 highlighted how South African students were losing IQ points annually due to vocabulary gaps. When these gaps were addressed and clarified, all lost IQ was regained. This underscores the importance of understanding language and cognitive concepts in learning.

Conclusion

The neurological mechanisms of the brain, particularly the cerebrum, are integral to the learning process. While the brain plays a minimal role in actual learning, it serves as a critical tool for the spiritual being. By understanding the complex interplay of the brain and the spiritual being, we can better support learning and facilitate intellectual growth. Addressing vocabulary gaps and clarifying concepts can significantly enhance a student’s learning experience and improve cognitive abilities.

References

Sheckley, R., Bell, J. (2007). Neurological Mechanisms in Learning Process. British Journal of Psychology.