Various models of our brain's architecture have been proposed over the years:

• The holistic brain: the brain as a pattern-seeking, holographic organ

• Two cerebral hemispheres: linear thought/language (left); creativity/the gestalt (right)

• Paul MacLean's (1978) model of the brain as a triune organ that evolved to process survival, emotional, and rational functions

• Howard Gardner's (1983) suggestion that our conscious brain functions through multiple forms of intelligence processed in different brain areas

• Gazzaniga's (1985) conception of the brain as a vast number of interconnected, semi-autonomous networks of neurons called modules, each specializing in a limited cognitive function. Neural modules are formed to consolidate activities in order to process complex cognitive functions.

Every brain is a uniquely-organized system. The brain is a social organ. The search for meaning is innate. The search for meaning occurs through “patterning.” Emotions are critical to patterning. Every brain simultaneously perceives and creates parts and wholes.

Learning involves focused and peripheral perception. Learning always involves conscious and unconscious processes. We have at least two ways of organizing memory. Learning is developmental. Complex learning is enhanced by challenge and inhibited by threat.

Sources: R. Sylwester. A Celebration of Neurons. (1995);R.N. Caine and G. Caine. Making Connections. ASCD (1997)

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