Neurodidactics: Everything You Need to Know

4 minutes

Teaching methodologies based on how the brain functions are known as neurodidactics. In short, they aim to integrate the curiosity, attention and emotions of learners.

Neurodidactics: Everything You Need to Know

Written and verified by lawyer Francisco María García.

Last update: 28 November, 2022

The fusion of neuroscience, education and psychology has given way to neurodidactics. Their objective is the application of teaching methodologies based on how the brain functions.

What it is, what it’s for and how to apply it are basic aspects that parents and educators should understand.

What is neurodidactics?

Neurodidadicts, neuroscience and neuroeducation comprise strategies based on how the brain learns and what stimulates the brain in school environments. The goal of this discipline is to take maximum advantage of brain functioning when it comes to acquiring new concepts.

Emotion, curiosity and attention are the bases of this process, through the use of inclusive classrooms. Gamification, or the use of games in the classroom, also comes into play. The model prioritizes respect and effort within the learning environment.

When educators come to understand how the brain learns, processes and stores information, they can adapt their teaching styles accordingly. At the same time, they will be able to structure their classes, words, attitudes, and emotions. This way, they can influence the brain development of their students and the way in which they learn.

A novel fusion

Neurodidactics is a new way of teaching that blends education and neurology. At the same time, it gives educational psychology a fundamental role in children’s development.

Teachers are encouraged to look for strategies that optimize the neural functioning of children. Some of these strategies consist of taking advantage of their sensory perceptions, working with memory, and capturing the attention and stimulus of their students .

The keys of neurodidactics

The brain’s ability to adapt – defined as brain plasticity – is a majorly significant factor in neurodidactics. Furthermore, we know that, with the right stimulation, the brain can permanently create new neurons as well as the connections between them.

On the other hand, mirror neurons are vital to neuroeducational strategies. These are cells that activate when we do something and when we observe the same action performed by others.

This also occurs as a result of emotional stimulus. Experts believe they’re of central importance in the learning of language and empathy.

Furthermore, the link between emotions and learning is a proven fact. If children learn to take control of their negative emotions and behaviors, it’s easier for them to learn. Furthermore, a learning environment that is free from stress and anxiety is essential.

Meaningful learning

Meaningful learning is the definition of this process that involves our emotions. This learning has a higher quality and lasts longer.

If teachers can help students understand the value and purpose behind what they’re learning, they’ll have more success. One way to go about this is to apply their knowledge to the real world through experiments, analogy and artistic activities.

Reasoning and memory

Besides the elements mentioned above, teaching through reasoning, improvement and strengthening of memory, and treatment of learning problems are all parts of neurodidactics in the classroom. These abilities also help to determine the neurological causes linked with academic failures.

“Some of these strategies consist of taking advantage of their sensory perceptions, working with memory, and capturing the attention and stimulus of their students.”

How to apply neurodidactics in the classroom

In order for students to receive and manipulate knowledge and participate in their learning processes, teachers must keep several factors into account. The first is creating a positive classroom environment. Furthermore, they should consider the following:

The closeness and empathy of teachers with students makes a big difference. If teachers can give off a positive attitude to their students, a great deal of their work will be done.
Classrooms should be free of excessive stress, as this is harmful to learning. Low levels of stress can stimulate and motivate students, and they will be able to manage it.
Emotions and memory are connected. If educators can create emotional connections with the topics they’re teaching, this will facilitate learning.
The use of videos, images, music and activities linked with their experiences is another tool of neurodidactics. They stimulate students’ senses, allowing for a more holistic learning experience.

The role of parents in neurodidactics

At home, there are a variety of ways in which parents can reinforce learning. First of all, they can encourage positive self-esteem in their children, which will favor learning in the classroom. At the same time, creativity is important. The aim is to boost creativity in the home.

If parents help children apply the knowledge they acquire, they’ll contribute significantly to the learning process. They should also make sure their children get plenty of rest, which also contributes to academic performance.

Nine hours of uninterrupted and restorative sleep are fundamental. Encouraging physical activity in order to activate and oxygenate the brain is also vital.

In conclusion, nuerodidactics is a discipline linked to a very effective learning process. Taking advantage of the way the brain functions is a strategy that produces excellent results.