Weekly Reflection

Due: November 1, 2005

"Biological Basis of Learning"

Biological basis of learning assumes that there are two preconditions to learning: (1) maturation and (2) different kinds of experiences.  I agree with this assumption.   Giftedness aside, kindergarten students will not be able to comprehend highly technical language. This skill is developed as the student matures and has experiences that develop these skills.  Student potential from child to child, school district to school district, state to state, and country to country.  For example, in some countries students do not begin school when they are 5 years old.  Some begin earlier or later.  As we discussed in class last week, research shows that students who begin school later eventually "catch up" with those who begin earlier.

On another note, will students learn to walk if they do not observe others standing upright?  Will students learn to talk if they never hear someone utter sounds/words?  Will students learn skills in reading, language arts, math, etc. unless they are taught?  We know that there are many individuals today who can walk, talk, run, jump, sing, etc. However, these same individuals cannot read, write, or perform mathematical computations.  Is it because they do were not born with the mental capacity (nature) or because they were never taught (nurture)? Placing learning disabilities aside, I believe that all students are capable of learning.  If this were not true, we would not have adults in their 60's obtaining GEDs, Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degrees. It's never too late (or too early) to learn.