The brain is divided into two hemispheres that work in a coordinated manner. In that context, the two hemispheres have been named the right and the left parts of the brain. While both sides have specific functions, research confirms that the parts work complementarily and that each plays a supportive role to the other. The brain works best in a coordinated manner with each side displaying dominance for particular functions. It is noteworthy that not any side can work independently and that coordination remains essential for effective learning and operations. On that premise, it is arguable that either side will control the other during the performance of a function of specialty.
The left hemisphere performs functions related to logic. In that context, the left hemisphere performs verbal and analytical processes, handles matters of words, numbers and reasoning. It is the part that enables the brain reach logical conclusions. It performs calculations and advices the person on the way forward. In that regard, this side can be credited with functions of thought and problem solution. Often, it assumes a logical approach to issues and would arrive at a reasoned out conclusion. It is the part that is dominant during logical activities. The benefits that accrue with the performance of the left hemisphere resonate around the logical outcomes. Logic is often essential in the performance of mundane tasks that human beings have to perform on a daily basis. For instance when commuting, one has to check on the traffic before crossing the road. This function may sound mundane and common but it is important for survival. Successful operation depends on the logical conclusions that brain arrives at during the crossing of the road. In addition, logic is essential in even more essential functions such as analysis. One has to examine issues from a broader spectrum and arrive at a logical conclusion.
On the other hand, the right hemisphere has its unique functions as well. It essentially performs functions to do with creativity, patterns, imaginations and images. The right side, therefore, is more of memory based that logic related. It relies on the ability to remember and inform the future using the amount of information available. In that context, the right hemisphere performs functions of thought and memory. It is the side that is relied upon to remember what occurred, what was learned, among other things. However, this does not mean the left side does not participate in these functions. It merely suggests that the right side is more active and hence would be dominant in such activities. In addition, the right side has the ability to generate patterns out of the imaginations and images it consumes.
Benefits accruing from the functions of the right side could be summed up in the ability to memorize and remember. This is an essential ability in humans because it lays the distinction between human beings and other species. Human beings have a better ability to remember. It is this ability that is relies upon to learn and get an education for the betterment of its own life. With age, the memory ability of the human fades. Interestingly as the memory fades, the logical approach also seems to reduce while the two functions are performed by different parts of the brain. This perhaps attests to the complementary nature of the two hemispheres of the brain.
For purposes of learning, the different functions of the brain hemispheres can be put to use. It is imperative to appreciate the complementary ability of the brain parts. For effective learning, one needs to exercise both sides of the brain. Therefore, the best learning approach would be one that applies either of the brain towards the learning. For that reason, it is essential for the curriculum to be developed not merely based on memorization, but equally apply concepts of thinking logically, pattern analysis, creativity, and reasoning, among others. This approach would enable the full utility of both sides of the brain. It would enable the complementary aspect to be put to use in the learning process. In addition, it has been confirmed that images have a positive effect towards the memorization of content. The learning process may as well adopt the images and pattern development approach to facilitate learning. Finally, research has confirmed that the brain needs to be exercised more for effectiveness. It is upon the learner to actively exercise the brain for such functions.
In conclusion, the onus lies in the learner to understand the learning style he prefers. It would be essential for purposes of knowing which part of the brain he uses most and enable the adoption of methods to ensure the concept of complementarity is applied. This would in the long run have positive effects for the learner as he would be able to capture more and learn in the most optimum of conditions hence maximize on the learning process with the least resources.
References
Brynie, F. (2009). Brain Sense. New York: American Management Association.
Gallagher, S. H. (2013). Left-Brained Versus Right-Brained: Which is the Better for Learning? Electronic Educational Environment . Retrieved from https://eee.uci.edu/news/articles/0505brain.php
Hopper, C. (2013, May 1). Learning Styles. Retrieved July 18, 2013, from Study Skills: www.mtsu.edu/~studskl/hd/learn.htm
Hubbard , T. (1993). Right Side/ Left Side. ProQuest, 126. Retrieved 29 June, 2013
