Jj is for Jottings 162. The Connection Between Literacy and Music.
There is a strong connection between literacy and music. Here, music includes learning a musical instrument and/or singing. It actually goes further: children who learn and practise music also have improved performance in executive function, arts and mathematics. (The core areas of executive function are working memory, inhibitory control, and selective attention.) Let’s go into why this is the case. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 154. How Smartphones Affect the Brain.
In this article we will cover some of the latest research on how smartphones affect the brain. We have previously discussed the effects of screen time on children. Amongst other aspects, this included language delay in children exposed to screens at an early age. We have also discussed the effects of digital distraction, which relates to a range of technological devices. Here we will look into the specific effects on the brain of smartphones, rather than screens in general. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 152. The Effects of Watching Violence.
Did you know that the effects of watching violence are different from the effects of simply reading about violence? Researchers consistently find that, the more often you watch disturbing scenes, the more anxious you become. This can result in forming long-term traumatic memories. Your brain is unable to distinguish between reality and fiction when viewing violence on screen. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 148. Other Effects of Noise.
Most of us know about the effects of noise on our hearing, discussed in the previous post. Spending much time in noisy environments can cause long-term damage to your hearing. Examples are working in a noisy factory or living near an airport. Exposure to loud music has the same effect (and you usually have more control over that one).
“Protect your brain from the other effects of noise, Jagar.”
Jj is for Jottings 142. Critical Thinking.
I was thinking the other day about how the world would be much better if more people applied critical thinking skills in their daily lives. Also about how we can introduce critical thinking to children. Funnily enough, the very next morning I read an article in the newspaper citing the results of a study into conspiracy theorists and critical thinking skills. More of that later. I took that as a sign to write this article. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 138. Brain Gym.
Brain gym is a series of movements which claim to enhance whole-brain learning. An alternative term is “educational kinesiology”. The word “education” comes from the Latin educare, which means “to draw out”. “Kinesiology” is from the Greek root kinesis, which means “motion” and is the study of the movement of the human body. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 124. Neuroplasticity, Power and Children.
This article follows on from the previous article on neuroplasticity and power. However, I just want to mention a couple more points before moving on to the subject of neuroplasticity, power and children. These points include people’s differing needs for power, and avoiding the negative effects of power. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 123. Neuroplasticity and Power.
The topic of neuroplasticity and power is related to this article which defines neuroplasticity and this article on neuroplasticity and complaining. Every experience we have and every thought we think affects the way our brain develops and changes. In turn, this affects our physiology and psychology. The interplay between neuroplasticity and power has consequences in all aspects of life, from the playground bully to leaders in business and beyond.
Neuroplasticity and Power. Shanti says, “I have such power over this paper. Does neuroplasticity mean I will turn into a lion?”
Jj is for Jottings 113. Neuroplasticity and Complaining.
Following on from the previous article on neuroplasticity, we will now be more specific – how complaining rewires the brain for negativity. Research shows that most people complain once a minute during a typical conversation. Although complaining might feel good, but just like smoking or eating a whole box of chocolates in one sitting, it doesn’t do you any good. Continue reading
Jj is for Jottings 112. What is Neuroplasticity?
Just what is neuroplasticity? It is the term which describes a sequence of processes that take place in your brain in response to incoming stimuli. In other words, your emotions, behaviours, experiences and thoughts physically change the way your brain functions.
“What is neuroplasticity? I think it is – if I keep practising balancing, I’ll get better at it.”
