ERIC Number: EJ758452
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006
Pages: 4
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0887-2376
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Visualizing Neuroscience: Learning about the Brain through Art
Chudler, Eric H.; Konrady, Paula
Science Scope, v29 n8 p24-27 Sum 2006
Neuroscience is a subject that can motivate, excite, and stimulate the curiosity of everyone However, the study of the brain is made difficult by an abundance of new vocabulary words and abstract concepts. Although neuroscience has the potential to inspire students, many teachers find it difficult to include a study of the brain in their classrooms because of limited time, lack of appropriate materials, and lack of content knowledge. This article presents art activities that have been used successfully to teach neuroscience to middle school students. These activities should be used to supplement the study of the nervous system, integrating them with lessons about how the brain controls the overall function of the body. By connecting the presented information to one's own physiology, students can internalize the new terminology build on their knowledge of neuroscientific concepts and vocabulary. These activities include: (1) modeling nerve cells (neurons) and brains; (2) entering art contests and competitions; and (3) creating other art forms in the classroom. Kinesthetic presentation of difficult concepts gives students a chance to visualize and manipulate objects while learning new material. Students are often motivated to deepen their understanding of neuroscientific vocabulary and concepts after being exposed to these types of activities, especially as they connect learning to what is happening in their bodies. Using art in the science classroom encourages students to learn new concepts and helps students become lifelong learners. (Contains 3 figures and lists 2 online resources.)
Descriptors: Vocabulary, Lifelong Learning, Kinetics, Art Activities, Brain, Neurology, Pedagogical Content Knowledge, Teaching Methods, Secondary School Science, Middle School Students, Integrated Curriculum, Physiology, Scientific Concepts, Molecular Structure, Student Motivation, Science Instruction
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Opinion Papers; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A