When conceptualised as an integrated web of active muscle fibres rather than as a static organ, the field of the brain's capabilities opens exponentially. "Whole Brain Learning" is a concept in which learners engage the whole of the brain (rather than just ‘some’ of its parts, so to speak).
Counting is traditionally a left-brain (logic and order oriented) process. However, one may add right-brain (intuition, creativity, problem solving) elements to the process by incorporating context and objects of meaning (ex. "how many of our classmates have brown hair?").
A third element, commonly known as "Kinaesthetic Learning", can be added to the exact same activity. Whilst the children count how many classmates have brown hair, they may be simultaneously performing a physical action as simple as interlocking their fingers and swaying their arms in a wave-like motion.
Such an exercise integrates three distinct brain capacities into one activity: left brain ordering, right brain intuition/problem-solving as well as basic motor skills and coordination.
In this way, Whole Brain Learning can be likened to a hard but fun and effective workout at the "brain gym" - providing a holistic and consolidated learning experience for all involved.
