The Power of the Mind: Whole Brain Theory PDF

The Power of the Mind : The Whole Brain Theory What is the Whole Brain Theory? In 1861, Paul Broca conducted a study on the language and left-right brain specialization on a patient who had problems with the language. After several tests, Broca theorized that some language functio...

The Power of the Mind : The Whole Brain Theory What is the Whole Brain Theory? In 1861, Paul Broca conducted a study on the language and left-right brain specialization on a patient who had problems with the language. After several tests, Broca theorized that some language functions reside on the left side of the brain (R. J Morris 2006) Dr. Roger Sperry conducted a study for epilepsy, which gave him, the 1981 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine. Sperry explained that the brain has two hemispheres that perform task differently from each other. He discovered that the left hemisphere of the brain was performing task that were intuitive, creative, and synthesizing; while the right hemisphere of the brain was more adept with analytical, logical, reasoning, and critical thinking. Dr. Perry’s theory was known as the “Split-Brain Theory” (The Split Brain Experiments) Dr. Paul MacLean's "Triune Brain Theory" identifies three brain parts: the neocortex, limbic system, and reptilian complex. Dr. MacLean's theory explains that the neocortex handles tasks like language, planning, and thinking. The limbic system manages emotions, motivation, and parenting, while the reptilian complex controls self-preservation and aggressive behavior, similar to the survival instincts of animals. Ned Herrmann, an engineer at General Electric, studied why some people are more creative than others. Building on Sperry's work, he developed the "Brain Dominance Theory." He observed that, just like people have a dominant hand or leg, the brain also has dominant parts. Herrmann identified four sections of the brain: the upper left and right hemispheres and the lower left and right limbic halves. These parts work together but influence how people think and act. Herrmann is known as the "Father of Brain Dominance Technology." Hermann labeled the four quadrants of the brain as: 1.Upper Left (A) Cerebral Mode – key word for this quadrant is ANALYTICAL 2.Lower Left (B) Limbic Mode – key word for this quadrant is ORGANIZE 3.Lower Right (C) Limbic Mode –key word for this quadrant is INTERPERSONAL 4.Upper Right (D) Limbic System – key word for this quadrant is IMAGINATIVE Portions A and B represent left-brain thinking, while C and D represent right-brain thinking. Herrmann created the Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument (HBDI), a 120-question survey that measures preferences for the four brain quadrants. He focused on thinking styles, not brain functions, promoting "whole-brain thinking," where people use all four styles. Most people rely on two main quadrants, but weaker styles can improve with practice. This approach helps solve problems creatively by using different thinking styles. A table on the next page will explain the four thinking styles and their practical uses. How does the Whole Brain Theory enhance learning? The Whole Brain Theory shows that brain dominance shapes thinking preferences, which influence learning styles. Each brain quadrant has unique learning strengths: Quadrant A learners: Logical thinkers who prefer numbers, facts, and theories. They analyze information, enjoy exact answers, and rely on research. However, they may struggle with expressing emotions or unclear concepts. Quadrant B learners: Organized and sequential thinkers who like clear instructions and practical applications. They excel in planning and following structured steps but may find it hard to take risks or understand abstract ideas without examples. Both A and B learners are practical and focused on real-world solutions. Quadrant C and D Learners Quadrant C learners: Social and group-oriented, they enjoy sharing ideas, projects, and active participation. They prefer learning through movement, interaction, and reflection. Emotional by nature, they value personal feedback but dislike purely intellectual discussions without activities. Quadrant D learners: Curious and creative, they excel in exploring, experimenting, and connecting ideas. They enjoy games, surprises, and visual learning, thriving in flexible environments. However, they may struggle with deadlines and rigid structures. C and D learners are fun, open-minded, and adaptable. Learners may show traits from all quadrants, not just one or two. Adolescent high school students can adapt their learning styles to those of their classmates and teachers, appreciating classroom diversity. This acceptance helps them become better collaborators, a valuable skill in the workplace, and improve interpersonal relationships in their personal lives. A simple test, called the Simple Test for Dominant Learning Styles, allows students to identify their dominant learning quadrant by selecting 10 descriptions. The quadrant with the most selections indicates their dominant style, and if the numbers are balanced, it suggests they use all four quadrants, becoming whole brain thinkers and learners.  The use of maps and diagrams to organize information dates back to the third century. Professionals like educators and engineers have used these methods for centuries. Tony Buzan, a British psychologist, popularized the term "mind map" for this technique. According to Dictionary.com, a mind map is a diagram representing ideas or information branching from a central concept, aiding in study, organization, problem-solving, decision- making, and writing. MindTools.com adds that mind maps are visual tools that connect concepts and information, making their interrelations clear and easily accessible for problem-solving and review. According to www.mindmapping.com, the five essential characteristics of mind mapping are: 1. The center image represents the main idea or focus. 2. Main branches radiate from the central image. 3. Each branch contains a key image or word. 4. Twigs represent lesser topics. 5. The branches form a connected nodal structure. MindTools.com proposes the following step in creating a basic mind maps: 1. Write the title of subject you are exploring in the center of the page, and draw a circle around it( as shown in Figure 1) The example shows how someone is brainstorming the actions needed to deliver a successful presentation. 2. Draw lines out of the center circle to label major subjects matters about reaching making presentation, like, Audience, Topic, Visual Aids, Location, and Delivery (See Figure No. 2) Thank You