The Paradigm Shift

Staff are wise to implement a deliberate plan to change the mental processes of students through frequent eye contact, conversation, notes and body language that convey acceptance, affirmation, confidence and encouragement. To that objective, staff should initiate contacts at school and home at least two weeks prior to test dates in order to change the way students perceive themselves and how they process essential knowledge and skills which exams will measure. An effective approach is to ask questions and make comments designed to stimulate the front lobe of the brain while neutralizing tendency to activate the back lobe of the brain. The front lobe is the seat of inspiration, initiative, creativity, confidence, and curiosity. The back lobe is the seat of anger, fear, depression, and defense mechanisms.  Students who operate predominately from the rear lobe are likely to fail exams. Students who operate from the front lobe are more likely to recall the essential knowledge and skills necessary to pass exams.

(more…)