Brain Based Early Learning Programs: Education, Society, and National P

The science of neurobiology and technology of brain-imaging are rapidly advancing the understanding of cognition: how people think and learn. Brain-imaging techniques allow access into the mysterious mechanisms of the brain, and it is now possible to observe what occurs in the brain â€Å"as it performs tasks such as solving a math problem, reading a book, or improvising a melody† (Limb). This neurobiological research also indicates that, in the brain, emotion and intelligence are intricately synchronized processes (â€Å"Social-Emotional†). Brain-based learning programs apply this principle of simultaneous cognitive and social-emotional development by emphasizing how the brain learns innately, and are based on what is currently known about the â€Å"physical structure and function† of the human brain at varying stages of development (Wilson). Scientists and educators agree that this educational model has proven to be most effective in the earliest, formative years of the brain, priming the brain both for learning and social relationships. There is significant and ample evidence documenting that early childhood education can generate substantial gains in children's learning and development. However, long-term advantages are predominantly recognized only in high-quality early childhood education programs (Swartout-Corbeil). Consequently, the availability of high-quality programs is limited, and high-quality programs are usually not affordable for most families (Swartout-Corbeil). Brain-based early learning programs represent the definitive in early childhood curriculum, and mandating for these cutting-edge programs on a national level has the potential to produce not only smarter and more creative learners, but also a society of compassi... ...a of Children's Health. â€Å"Early Childhood Education.† Web. 5 Apr. 2012. US House of Representatives. Committee on Education and the, Workforce. Education Regulations: Burying Schools In Paperwork. Hearing Before The Subcommittee On Early Childhood, Elementary And Secondary Education Of The Committee On Education And The Workforce. U.S. House Of Representatives, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, First Session (March 15, 2011). Serial Number 112-12. US House of Representatives, 2011. ERIC. Web. 22 Mar. 2012. Wentzel, K. R., Weinberger, D. A., Ford, M. E., & Feldman, S. S. (1989, March). â€Å"Academic achievement in preadolescence: The role of motivational, affective, and self-regulatory processes.† Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, San Francisco. Wilson, Leslie Owen. â€Å"Overview of Brain-based Education.† Web. 7 Apr. 2012.