Brain-Relevant Education

Brain-relevant education refers to a relatively new perspective on learning influenced by an abundance of new data emerging from the study of the brain. The term itself—brain-relevant education, sometimes referred to as brain-based learning—garners criticism by some, who contend that all education relates to, or is based in, the brain. From this perspective, the term may seem pretentious or irrelevant. To others, however, and perhaps the majority, brain-relevant education connotes a biological approach to learning. This contrasts with a more traditional position favoring psychological or behavioral emphases.

Other synonymous terms include education-related brain science, educational brain science, and educational neuroscience. Each draws attention to how the brain learns but with particular focus on the biology of learning. This entry uses these terms interchangeably.

Still other similar terms—neuropsychology ...