All Modules 1-Module 1 - Philosophy | Page 33

33 Today, his theories have not only been proven, but expanded on as well. The latest investigations about the brain, mind, and education have proven that exposing the brain to new experiences creates synaptic connections that build neurological pathways that in turn interconnect with previous connections and previous experiences. This synaptic process is in fact the learning process, in which the brain builds the comprehension of concepts and knowledge. Another fascinating finding of recent investigations is that the peak stages of brain development occur during the first 5 years of life. Nevertheless, Dr. Kurt Fisher, from Harvard University, has proven through his investigations that new pathways and networks continue to be created in the brain even during adulthood. This finding confirms our firm belief that we are all learners, and that the main responsibility of education is to facilitate significant, relevant, and provocative experiences for every learner regardless of age. In addition, the investigation made by Dr. Hellen Immordino about social interactions, emotions, and learning gives further power to the notion that human beings build meaning through the interaction with others and their environment. Learners take an active role in the construction of knowledge, while teachers act as facilitators and investigators that become learners when they work together with the students to build wisdom. In this way, the environment in which experiences are lived also acquires importance. 3. Knowledge evolves Nowadays, more than ever, it is evident that knowledge has a dynamic essence. We can no longer make the assumption that we know. New discoveries are made every second, and technology gives us the ability to access information with faster than ever with just the click of a mouse. Knowing where to find information, the reliability of the sources and the methods for validating them have become the main priorities of education. We are in complete agreement