Healthy Environment for Learning Experiences

(Essay)

There are numerous evidences that reflect the importance of studying the human brain´s processes and its influence and relationship with learning experiences. Therefore, it is necessary to consider factors and conditions that affect the brain, and in consequence, the integral development of human beings, where Diamond (2003) says, these facts are not only taken in account during childhood or adulthood, but also in the prenatal and postnatal stages of human development.
Added to this, the author points out an example set back in 1237, during the Ming Dynasty, in which pregnant women were asked, according to Diamond (2003): “…sit and walk dignified and sedately; maintain a good temper and with a mind at ease; do not look at evil happenings and ugly pictures”, it means, that the attitude and behavior of pregnant mothers is fundamental to guarantee the healthy growth of their future baby. This implies a social, mental, physical and emotional balanced state.
It is good to point out that what was before mentioned is one of the important factors in the good functioning of the brain and its response to the learning experiences. However, enriched environment also contribute to meaningful learning and optimum development of multiple intelligence in individuals.
For this reason, these statements lead parents and teachers to seek different strategies that, according to Diamond (2003): “… help a child to develop his or her full potential and set a pathway of lifelong learning.” (p.5). So that, it allows them to grant their children and/or students more creative, dynamic, participative, reflective, motivate and safer spaces and environments, that stimulate them and motivate them in a continuous learning, developing their different skills and abilities.

Likewise, other aspects considered by Diamond (2003) for a healthy and enriched environment are: a) Granting quality time, in which they can express feelings and emotions such as support, love, respect, solidarity, companionship, forgiveness and care, which will enhance and strengthen the self confidence and self assurance of the students. b) A healthy nourishment that includes enough vitamins, proteins, minerals and calories that favors positively the growth of brain cells, that will allow the child to answer to daily experiences in an assertive way. c) Considering the opportunities and strategies that allow the stimulation of senses, not necessarily all at the same time; however, through multisensory experiences there is the opportunity to stimulate them. d) Offering an environment of harmony, pleasure and freedom that allows dissipating the levels of pressure and stress. e) Promoting the social interaction through meaningful activities that encourage the exchange of ideas, opinions, differences, thoughts, games and adequate physical contact, which enrich interpersonal relationships and individual knowledge. f) Encouraging the performance of each student through their mental, social, physical, aesthetic and emotional abilities and skills. g) Each child has their own interests and preferences in learning; therefore it is good to facilitate opportunities in which he/she can choose to do what they wish to do. h) Giving the children chance to evaluate their final results in a determinate task, and allowing them to start all over again. i) Providing children with fun and enjoyable atmosphere with exploring activities that allow them to learn in an active role and have fun at the same time.
On the other hand, Diamond (2003) also point out the consequences of unhealthy and stressful environments. These environments present the children and/or students with negative climate in which they are under stress or deprived of sensory activities; also, they are isolated from classmates or peers which they can learn from. Their diet is poor and they are presented with non fun, unchanging and old activities, often secluding them into a passive non-participant position with a low selection of subjects and options.
It is important to mention that even the most simple of instruments and materials can become excellent tools for creativity stimulation and multisensory experiences. These materials can go from carton boxes to tape recorders, which children combine with their imagination (make believe). Although this method is good for brain development, children must not be over-stimulated or else their learning processes won´t we meaningful, since they will find themselves in an environment full of pressure and their brains don’t have enough time to store information connectly and make good use of it in later occasions.

BIBLIOGRAPHIC REFERENCES
- Diamond, M (2003) What are the determinants of Children´s Academic Successes and Difficulties? University of California, US