Activating the Learner's Brain: Using the Learner's Brain Model

Table of Contents:
Dedication Foreword Preface Acknowledgements Chapter 1: Lesson delivery Chapter 2: Using Assessments Chapter 3: Consolidation for Closure Chapter 4: Reflections Chapter 5: Sample Lesson Plan Appendix: Rubric 1: Questioning Rubric 2: Student Engagement Rubric 3: Student Interviews Rubric 4: Coaching Walk using the Learner’s Brain Model

About the Author :
Dr. Mario C. Barbiere, a passionate practitioner with a strong theoretical background, was a teacher, school administrator, superintendent, professor and school turnaround educator committed to closing the achievement gap and positive student academic success. He was worked at the district and State level for school turnaround promoting student self-regulation and teacher empowerment and this book incorporates theory and practice for a wide reading audience.

Review :
As an educational practitioner who has worked closely with Dr. Barbiere for the past few years in closing the achievement gap in my school, I am excited to learn about this new text and the research base for which it is rooted. What is different about Dr. Barbiere's approach is that he uses a combination of brain-based learning and self-regulation of learning to help guide learners through practical approaches that educators can employ immediately in their classrooms. What's more, Dr. Barbiere stands behind his espoused practices: he is in classrooms every day and has the benefit of having observed and implemented his tools in literally hundreds of classrooms in all socioeconomic and demographic populaces. Dr. Barbiere shares practical tools and strategies for the educator to employ. More significant is that these practices help the learner to self-motivate, reflecting actively on their own learning and using these strategies to monitor their own progress. This is an empowering and important strategy for learners, especially those with learning and/or demographic disadvantages. I endorse this text with full confidence that once the reader utilizes any or all of the research-based strategies discussed, you will see immediate differences in your classroom, school or district, as I have in my own, thanks to the guidance and measurable methods provided within the text. As a Principal, I have often used materials created by Dr. Barbiere ("Doc") to improve teaching and learning in our school. Our focus has been on the most salient practices of instructional leadership and we have had great results! The materials are an adaptable resource and have offered a practical approach to coach and mentor our teachers. Dr. Barbiere’s wealth of proven successful experiences improving student’s social, emotional, and intellectual lives shines through Activating the Learner’s Brain. We can learn from this master by reading his straight-shooting, practical strategy book that combines the best years of experience and the widely regarded research and literature. I see Activating the Learner’s Brain in every school’s professional learning community study group!