How Children Learn

Using animation and jargon-free narration, this charming film summarizes what is currently known about learning from brain research, cognitive development research and contemporary educational practice. Designed to be used as an introduction to discussion of school and teaching practices, this film also serves as an introduction to the study of learning in introductory education and psychology classes. 

Animation depicts the firing of synapses, the growth of dendrites and the concept of the brain plasticity, making the point that learning is as basic a human activity as breathing or eating. Factors that lead to school success are presented in a model that reflects the work of Erik Erikson, Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky without mentioning them by name. This video can thus serve as a starting point for a range of audiences interested in educational matters but leery of jargon-filled expositions.

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