The Brain on Homework

Rules (that for once aren't made to be broken)

The Brain Gym Controversy

Working in schools (an occupational hazard of being a teacher) I have come across Brain Gym on a number of occasions. In case you don't know, Brain Gym is a system of kinesthetics that puts forward the idea that certain exercises and postures aid children's learning. It is widely used in British state schools.

However, despite its popularity, like anything that's successful, it comes with its very own controversial baggage. There are those who have disputed the validity of Brain Gym's theoretical foundation and its alleged results, citing it as an example of 'bad science'*.

You can find out more about the proposed benefits of Brain Gym as an aid to children's learning here, whereas you can read more about one sceptic's view here.

Personally, I don't feel well-informed (or practised enough in this area) to make a call one way or another. All that I would say is that even if the science behind Brain Gym wouldn't stand up to in-depth scientific scrutiny, if the simple action of carrying out the Brain Gym exercises before starting a lesson or a task helps a child focus on the work they have to do then is that really such a bad thing. After all, placebos have been proved to make a difference in certain medical trials.

Maybe it's just a case of mind over matter, but if that is the case, then it doesn't matter and I don't mind. If it works for you...


* What's 'good science' then? The atom bomb?

Parents and teachers, working together

Being a teacher myself, I have known for a long time that children make the best progress at school when teachers and parents effectively work in partnership. This means more than simply helping with homework, and relies on teachers and parents creating the means to partake in an ongoing dialogue, between home and school.

An article in this week's Times Educational Supplement, specifically about The Compton School in Finchley, north London, makes the point that by involving their parents, pupils’ behaviour and results can be improved.

If you would like to read more about this topic yourself, click here.

Wise Words

In my time as a teacher, I have come across the teachings of the renowned Chinese thinker and social philosopher Confucius (551-479 BC) time and time again. And so much of what he had to say, more than two thousand years ago, still rings very true to me today - as I thing it does for many. Just consider these famous quotes of his:

In all things, success depends upon previous preparation without which there is sure to be failure.

Learning without thought is labour lost; thought without learning is perilous.

I am not one who was born in the possession of knowledge; I am one who is fond of antiquity, and earnest in seeking it there.

Study the past if you would define the future.

I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.

To learn and, from time to time, to apply what one has learned, isn't that a pleasure.

So, there you go; Chinese Philosophy 101. Class dismissed.