Right Brain, Left Brain: Is it a Myth?
When asked this question three decades ago, I would explain that there are two sides of the outer cortex, divided laterally—the right and the left. I drew a picture of a circle, added a line down the middle. Then, I wrote in specific characteristics for each hemisphere.
Left brain = logical. Right brain = creative.
After the "right brain" craze of the 90's, parents and teachers across the globe were familiar with these terms. There wasn't much to explain.
But, the term "right brain" as is widely understood does not do our program justice. That's because TweedleWink and Wink learning techniques take the creative/artistic definition of the right brain to new heights.
You see, we attribute somewhat "magical" functions to the right hemisphere. When it is properly, lovingly and playfully nurtured in children, it is responsible for such abilities as photographic memory, speed reading, intuitive flashes of insight and holographic, multi-sensorial visualization/imagination, and more.
Is the Right Brain a Myth?
Many people believe that the right brain is a myth.
Right brain education is based on the premise that we have two distinct types of characteristics discovered by Dr. Sperry and Dr. Ornstein in their Nobel prize-winning "split brain" research. The right side of the brain is more emotional, intuitive, musical, imaginative and photographic! The left is more logical, practical, relying upon language and practical systems. Some scientists believe that we continually use both sides of the brain, therefore debunking the right brain/left brain theory. This is true. But, it doesn't diminish the value of the right brain/left brain theory. It is still a valid working model.
The hemispheres of the brain work together, in tandem. When you look at an MRI of someone who is drawing, or visualizing, or even playing music, you'll notice that the right side of the brain is lit up more. The left side less so. That is, until the subject begins to speak, explaining what they see. Then, the centers responsible for language light up. The left side (attributed to language) sines as brightly as the right. So, there is specialization. And there is synchronization. The two sets of characteristics are still valid. In a healthy brain, they combine beautifully for a wide range of abilities.
In the studies cited to debunk the "right brain myth," subjects with right or left brain damage are shown to regain function that is typically attributed to the damaged hemisphere. If you are familiar with the concept of neuroplasticity, you will understand why this brings that data into question. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. Neuroplasticity allows the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain to compensate for injury and disease and to adjust their activities in response to new situations or to changes in their environment." This allows left brain function to become recreated in the right hemisphere, and vice-versa. There are even case studies of children missing the entire outer cortex, functioning "normally." There is still so much we do not yet understand about the brain.
To disregard the right brain, or to avoid training children up in this unique method, is a mistake.
After 30 years of right brain education, the use of photographic memory, speed reading play and more in class--and sensitivity to subtle frequency--is best explained by the right brain/left brain split. We will continue to update our research to match what we see in the classroom. And at the same time, as forerunners of a sensitive type of education that accesses the subconscious in memory play, we will continue to refer to the "right brain" and the "left brain" as we have. For us, it is the perfect way to quickly understand the importance of heart-based relationships, patience, creativity and play in our approach to accelerated learning. The goal is for both hemispheres to work together—logic and intuition combined in a beautiful balance—for the maximization of each child's human potential. <3
Our children need creativity. They must be taught how to access information that is beyond logical thought systems. It is time to embrace a learning approach that fosters empathy, cooperation, creativity, music, play, movement, sponge-like learning techniques, like photographic memory, speed reading, and holographic imagination.
The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.
- Albert Einstein
It is simply time.
Here's a quick summary: "What is the Right Brain?" I hope that it is helpful!
Love, Pamela
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