©Arlene Taylor PhD
From a brain function perspective the main purpose of education, formal and informal, is to develop skills throughout the brain. The study of differing subject matter can help. Think of the developed skills as internal brain software program that can then be utilized as necessary in a variety of ways in life. One of the laws of cybernetics says that the organism with the most options is likely to be most successful. Study is one way to develop more “options” that, in turn, can help you to be more successful.
Students sometimes lament, “I don’t know why I have to study ‘X’ subject. I know I’ll never use it again and it’s a big waste of my time!”
My response is, “Even if you don’t use that specific subject again per se, you may need to accomplish some task or activity in life that draws on skills you built when you studied that topic.”
The ease with which you breeze through or struggle with specific classes is impacted by your own unique brain and thinking process preference, along with the energy required. Some classes/subjects will be easier than others and require less energy expenditure. Key tasks required for mastering a specific subject are usually centered in one or two of the cerebral divisions, although all divisions work together at some level. Examples follow.
Prioritizing Division
- Math (arithmetic, algebra, statistics, calculus)
- Auto mechanics, equipment repairs
- Electronics, electrical engineering
- Debate, public speaking
- Track and field
- Research, medicine
- Investigative reporting
- Aspects of artistic endeavors (line drawing, literal representations, aspects of sculpture and painting, portions of woodworking)
- Architectural plans
- CPA, MBA
- Law
- Aspects of computer programming
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Envisioning Division
- Math (geometry, trigonometry, some calculus)
- Chemistry, physics, biology, philosophy
- Architectural design, graphic design
- Artistic endeavors (painting, abstract representations, sculpture, photography)
- Creative writing, short stories, poetry, novels
- English literature
- Musical composition or arranging
- Choreography, creative dance, composition
- Marketing, public relations, sales
- Interior design
- Aspects of computer programming, brainstorming new programs or solutions to computer problems
- Some individual-sports activities
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Maintaining Division
- Reading, spelling
- Handwriting (print and cursive)
- Typing, data entry
- Team sports
- Bookkeeping
- Paralegal
- Civics, history
- Management, administration
- Aspects of computer programming
- Food services, dental hygiene
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Harmonizing Division
- Music, drama, dancing
- Foreign languages
- Public relations, marketing, sales
- Chaplaincy
- Human resources
- Home economics
- Therapy (PT, RT, OT, rehab, speech)
- Nursing Services
- Social work
- Counseling
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