The Impact of Neuroscience on Boys' Education

“What the hand does, the mind remembers.”- Maria Montessori. As educators we have a wealth of untapped knowledge and anecdotal evidence regarding education systems. Unfortunately, global education systems operate on a top down approach and the experiences of educators who serve in the trenches are rarely taken into consideration. This misguided top down approach renders students merely as statistics. Sadly, within this space the human element is sacrificed on the altar of curriculum expediency. Boys, in particular are often overlooked as the education system reinforces a one-sized approach to teaching and learning. Boys are tactile learners. Tactile learning is an approach that engages a learner's sense of touch to explore and understand the world around them. It is grounded in the understanding that sensory experiences are crucial to cognitive development, particularly in the early years. This learning style involves the direct handling and manipulation of objects, allowing learners to experience concepts with their hands as well as their minds. Boys’ unique learning styles must be considered in the reform of education. Global education systems are skewed towards gendered expectations as well as cultural indoctrination of girls. Girls are expected to be docile and submissive. These traits facilitate girls benefiting more from a girl- friendly education system. Regrettably, boys learning then becomes ‘add on’ instead of being prioritized. Of course, some boys will excel in the current system. Our boys are not stupid. Sooner than later they realize that the focus of global education systems is geared towards girls. Global education systems often emasculate boys. Boys are then forced to find alternative pathways as they retreat from the formal feminized education systems. As our boys retreat from the formal education system their sense of manhood and masculinity are reinforced and their personhood is restored. This reclaiming of their manhood is grounded in the world of work where many boys enter prematurely as a means of escape. The Role of Neurochemistry. The role of neurochemistry is critical in planning differentiation regarding the sexes. Research indicates that from the earliest moments, a boy’s brain secretes less serotonin, which is directly related to impulse control. As a result, the ability of boys to regulate their impulses throughout the academic day is diminished. In addition, the brain stem in boys has more spinal fluid, which is a part of what makes them so physical. Studies utilizing PET scans and MRIs show that boys learn very differently than girls. Michael Gurian is one of the world's foremost gender experts and a pioneer in applying neurobiology and brain-based research to parenting, education and public policy. One of the pioneers studying gender learning-style differences, Michael Gurian, reports several key factors differentiating girl/boy learning: Boys show more areas in the brain dedicated to spatial-mechanical strengths, whereas girls generally demonstrate a focus on verbal-emotive processing. Girls are generally hardwired to be less impulsive, enabling them to sit still, focus, read, and write at an earlier age than boys. Boys are often misdiagnosed with learning disabilities and attention-deficit problems when educators are not aware of the delicate neurology of the male developing brain. Boys are predisposed to be single-task focused, whereas girls’ predisposition fosters strength in multitasking Transitions are more difficult for boys due to this lateralization of the brain versus typical female cross-communication of brain hemispheres. Revisiting Learning Preferences. Tactile learning is about adding a physical dimension to cognitive processes. It enriches the learning environment by providing diverse pathways to explore, discover, and retain knowledge. By incorporating tactile learning, educators can cater to various learning styles, ensuring that tactile learners, who may struggle in traditional learning settings, are given the opportunity to thrive. Boys are energized and motivated by movement. Based on this fact, teaching styles that encourage the experiential/kinesthetic learning modality support boys’ natural biochemistry must be incorporated in the teaching and learning journey. The implications for not addressing the plight of our boys are already visible in many societies. More males are both the perpetrators and victims of homicides. More males are being drawn into gangs and gang activities and this is problematic. Too often school becomes sites of conflicts for our boys. Many boys are turned off and tune out by the formal education system. Even teachers who are aware of the differences regarding how boys learn are unable to adequately execute such tailored lessons given the rod of correction is every present in their subconscious. School then becomes a toxic space for both the learner and the teacher. The wholesale indiscipline across all sectors of the society is deeply associated with our males. Is there a need to revisit how our boys are being treated in the current education system? There is an urgent need for a shakeup in global education systems. Our youth must have a say in co-creating global education systems. Tactile learning represents a powerful paradigm to education that recognizes the fundamental connection between physical experience and cognitive development. As educators we need to advocate more for an education system that supports the diverse learning styles of our students. There needs to be a paradigm shift towards ‘brain-friendly’ classrooms that optimizes boys’ natural neurochemical and developmental tendencies. The focus of our boys needs to be taken seriously as we reimagine an education system that is both inclusive and responsive. In the words of Michael Gurian, if we want boys to succeed, we need to bring them back to education by making education relevant to them and bring in more service learning and vocational education. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo ©