Brain Compatible Learning and Environments

Susan Kovalik is an innovative leader in education who has had the courage to push forth with the concept of Integrated Thematic Instruction (I.T.I.) integrated with multiple intelligences, Bloom's Taxonomy, and a micro-society within the school framework-thus creating Bodybrain Compatible Learning and Environments. I hope you check out her website and the following is taken from Susan's Website. According to Kovalik's philosophy:

Overview:

Three independent areas of best knowledge and best practice form the structure of the model.
Growing Responsible Citizens1. Research on the biology of learning has given us a window on learning never before realized in the history of civilization.
Translate the biology of learning into practical application
Implement the nine bodybrain-compatible elements 2. Teaching strategies that align with the way the human brain learns have the greatest impact.
Design the physical classroom to support long-term learning
Create workable teams of students
Develop classroom management that uses agreements, procedures, Lifelong Guidelines and LIFESKILLS 3. Curriculum development by classroom teachers makes learning meaningful.
Anchor curriculum to a yearlong theme and rationale
Align district and state learning goals within the theme
Orchestrate being there experiences tied to meaningful content being there.
Reach out to the community

Click on the graphic to view a flash presentation.

The ITI model begins with an understanding of four learning principles derived from bodybrain research:Click each one for more information.

Intelligence is a function of experience

Learning is an inseparable partnership between brain and body
Emotion is the gatekeeper to learning and performance
Movement enhances learning

There are multiple intelligences or ways of solving problems and/or producing products

Learning is a two-step process:
Step one: Making meaning through pattern seeking
Step two: Developing a mental program for using what we understand and wiring it into long-term memory

Personality impacts learning and performance
For more information on these brain research concepts, check out Associate Ann Ross'sExplanation of ITI's Brain Research Concepts