Environmental and Chemical Factors Related to Learning

Amanda WeeksAshford University

EDU417: Cognitive Studies CapstoneProfessor J. Savarese-Levine

February 2, 2014

What Affects Your Child’s Brain?

It important to have a

basic understanding of

the chemical factors

(i.e., neurotransmitters)

that affect your child’s

ability to learn.

Environmental factors also have a

major impact, including:

O SleepO ExerciseO Nutrition

O Technology

Understanding Neuroplasticity

The brain is an amazing organ

that can grow and change and is

shaped by environment as well

as genetics.

.

An Intro to Neurotransmitter

s

Neurons release chemicals

that cross synapses and allow

communication between

neurons. They can have a big

impact on learning and

memory.

Some Common Neurotransmitters

Dopamine Multiple functions depending on where in the brain it acts; vital to movement and thought and regulating emotional responses.

Serotonin Helps regulate temperature, sensory perception, mood, and sleep.

Acetylcholine May aid in regulating memory; controls actions of skeletal and smooth muscle.

Sleep, Exercise, Nutrition, and Technology: Effects on

Learning and Memory

Why Your Child Needs a Good Night’s Sleep

O At certain times during the sleep cycle, the brain is as active as when we are awake and problem-solving.

O During sleep, consolidation occurs, which is “the process of stabilizing a memory trace over time, moving it from short-term to long-term memory” (Wolfe, 2010, p. 96).

O While we sleep, we process information we learned during the day, which contributes strongly to memory formation.

The Importance of Nutrition to Learning

O Complex carbs improve attention, working memory, and episodic secondary memory.

O Obese adults have been shown to have 8% less brain tissue.

O High levels of saturated fats impair memory and learning.

O Omega-3 fatty acids are vital to hormone balance and immune system, which are essential to a healthy brain.

O Neurotransmitters are composed of amino acids, which we gain from our diet.

How Exercise Impacts Learning

O Physical activity increases oxygen flow to the bloodstream, which increases growth and plasticity of frontal lobes.

O Exercise can induce neurogenesis (growth of new neurons).

O Movement causes the release of proteins that trigger the release of BDNF (brain-derived neurotropic factor), which stimulates neural growth and learning.

Technology and Learning:Both Risks and Benefits of Video

Games and TV are Highly Debatable

O The effects of TV shows and video games depend on the content, age of the child, and time spent viewing/playing.

O If they replace valuable activities such as exercise and studying, the impact is quite negative.

O Shows with complex plots can enhance higher level thinking skills.

O Well-designed educational video games can focus on critical skills and provide practice, feedback, and motivation.

O Games that allow players to work together enhance social skills.

ReferencesO Fischer , K. W., Immordino-Yang, M. H., & , (2008). The

Jossey-Bass reader on the brain and learning. (1st ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

O Ganzer, C., & Zauderer, C. (2011). Promoting a brain-healthy lifestyle. Nursing Older People, 23(7), 24-27. Retrieved from Ashford Library.

O Weis, T., Puschmann, S., Brechmann, A., & Thiel, C. M. (2012). Effects of L-dopa during Auditory Instrumental Learning in Humans. Plus ONE, 7(12), 111. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0052504. Retrieved from Ashford Library.

O

Wolfe, P. (2010). Brain matters: Translating research into classroom practice. (2nd ed.). Alexandria,VA:

Association for Supervision & Curriculum Development.