Are we teaching against the brain? | Julia Volkman | TEDxApex
TEDx Talks·2025-11-25 17:38

Brain Development & Learning - The brain's efficiency increases with repetition, transforming connection jungles into neuronal superhighways [8] - Interest is learning's superpower, driving repetition and making practice easier [10][11] - Brains are uniquely sculpted by individual interests and experiences [12] - Neuroscience indicates the benefits of interest-driven deep learning for robust brains [21] Educational Implications - Traditional, teacher-led schools may lead to different brain development compared to student-led, interest-driven schools [19][20] - Student-led, interest-driven schools are associated with greater neuronal stability, network integration, creativity, attention, self-regulation, and social interaction [18][20] - Educators should be flexible with timelines, encourage repetition, and foster student interests to optimize learning [22] Cognitive Load & Brain Function - Learning involves a heavy cognitive load, requiring significant brain resources [2] - The brain prunes unnecessary connections to create shortcuts and improve efficiency [6] - Brains are constantly learning and changing, even rapidly [7]