Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Neuroscience and other thoughts

Since coming here I have learned the following (very generalized)

-APA style for citation

-Journals are more prestigious than books since a committee selects articles, whereas everyone can publish a book

-the need for support and practice in understanding material
           -meaning, one needs not only support from someone (could be in terms of encouragement, kudos, or other manners), as well as a way to practice new knowledge (homework or direct application) in order to really acquire that. This is something that I have always known, but in education there has been a push for "no homework" (which I have always disagreed with), and so having this confirmed made me feel better about myself as an educator.

-at 2 years and 3 months babies will begin to understand the concept of the number 1, and they think that any number after "1" means "more." So, they do not understand that 2 means 2, but rather any amount more than 1. This progresses with every single number so that they think that each number after the one they've mastered means "more" and not that finite amount. And math begins... :)

-People learn best through metaphors as it bridges gaps between domains of knowledge. I knew this, too, but it's nice to know that someone has done definitive research on it.


Writing things down helps me remember then, and I really ought to cite my sources here, correct my grammar, etc. etc. I'm not sure that I will have the time for that; inevitably, I will regret this later.

In terms of Boston updates:

-The Samuel Adams Brewery is awesome (the rounds of beer keep coming and you get to keep a free glass)
-I feel like Amelie (see movie) when I wait for the bus (and I love it)
-There is a Brazilian Bakery across the street from the apartment, which happens to have the most amazing little chocolate, caramel sprinkle balls that can make any "bad" day 100 times better

In terms of weather, it is incredibly hot and humid outside. I was predicting much cooler weather, but, as my adviser noted, Global Warming is manifesting itself.

All is incredibly well. I am blessed.

1 comment:

  1. I hated doing APA instead of MLA, but I guess there are worse things in the world. **sigh**

    I might have to argue one pro of everyone being able to publish without a committee...material gets published without any bias besides the author. Not that I ever thought my book would be picked up, but I plan on self-publishing so I can say exactly what I want in the way that I want. But, I do see the need in for a committee as well.

    I really like the third bullet and agree with it as well.

    The info on numbers is very interesting. I am curious when a child understands the concept of fractions. I wonder if the proper "playing" or "toys" could increase fraction conception...especially because fractions seem to be difficult for students to understand.

    Ugh...I hate using metaphors, but they are very visual. I just usually look at someone as being condescending when using metaphors, but I can also see the merit. Also, compare and contrast has been shown to increase understanding.

    Boston sounds amazing!! Miss you guys!!!

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