Section 3

Right/Left Brain Dominance

The different sides of the brain control two different modes of thinking. To foster a more whole-brain approach, tutors should know their own mode and how to tutor to each side of the brain.

Activity A

The two sides of the brain

If you are not familiar with this learning style, you should review the handouts. You may also want to read the resources for this section.

Lecture

Materials and equipment

Flip chart and markers
Handout 3.6: Right Brain and Left Brain Learning (Note: This is for your reference; you will give it to tutors in a later activity.)

Preparation

Read over the handout Right Brain and Left Brain Learning. Familiarize yourself with some of the characteristics of each side.

STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

  1. Explain to tutors that the two hemispheres of the brain respond differently depending on which side is more dominant. This does not refer to right- or left-handedness; rather, it’s about how we perceive and interact with the world around us.
  2. Write on the flip chart Left/Analytical and Right/Global. Each side of the brain has different learning strengths and weaknesses. Depending on whether we are right- or left-brained will determine the way we learn best.
  3. Write under each heading a few characteristics.


It’s not how smart you are but how are you smart.