EDU 224 Lesson 2

    After watching the videos on Vision and Hearing, describe how this information impacts you as a teacher.

  The video on vision gave me an understanding of how important visual stimulation is for proper brain development, the ability of the brain to be able to make connections and memory.  Although a child may have functional eyes, the actual ability to "see" takes place in the occipital lobe of the brain and knowing this gives me a better understanding of vision as a whole.  As a teacher understanding that vision problems can be misdiagnosed as a learning disability ensures that I will take steps to make sure any child that is struggling significantly be properly screened before making assumptions that they cannot learn the material.  I must look for signs that indicate a vision problem and notify the school nurse and the parents if a problem is suspected.

  The video on hearing gave me resources and knowledge concerning the impact hearing has on learning.  As a teacher it is important that I speak clearly and ensure that my classroom is free from continual loud repetitive noises.  I can also teach lessons on how important protecting hearing is and steps the students can use to make sure their hearing lasts until they are senior citizens.  If I notice any signs that a student may have a hearing problem; such as always asking me to repeat what I said or a speech problem, I will refer them to get a hearing screening since speaking properly is closely related to hearing properly.

Lesson One-

The question is:
After watching the videos on brain architecture, plasticity, and understanding the impact of the environment on a child, how does this information impact you as a teacher?


I watched these videos and was quite interested in everything that was included.  

Knowing how the brain works and that there are sensitive periods during the development of the brain are both very beneficial to teachers.  When teaching, I can use this information to help guide my lesson plans.  Since there are sensitive periods of the brain’s development, it would seem that during these times children are more receptive to certain types of information and feedback. 

It is especially helpful to know that environment plays a key role in how and what children learn.  This knowledge can really help guide me as a teacher.  I know nobody will create the perfect learning environment for students, but I can use all of the information I am learning in this class to create the best environment possible to support the learning of the children i my classroom.